Is it possible to marry your best friend, divorce, and stay friends? If Celeste and Jesse Forever were a real-life story, then it proves that it’s the most complex of situations. However, it shows that it’s also believable. Co-writers and co-stars Rashida Jones and Will McCormack have been there in a way: The two dated for a few weeks in the late 90s, but felt that they were better suited to be friends more than lovers. Jones and McCormack’s shared history inspired their first screenplay (as individuals and as collaborators). The film is already being lumped in the romantic comedy genre, but the fact that it focuses more on the heartbreak side gives it the realistic edge and makes it a difference-maker in the field. Its unpredictability, authenticity, delightfully crude humor, and multidimensional characters give heart to a solid and highly engaging effort by cast, and crew alike—and bring something new to audiences seeking a laugh but also a serious and somewhat heartwrenching narrative.
Jones plays the female protagonist she penned—a busy, motivated, and successful Los Angeles media consultant named Celeste. Scenes of her and Jesse (Andy Samberg)—a talented but unemployed and slightly lazy illustrator—open the film, featuring the two of them affectionately and playfully speaking to each other in fake accents. After a botched double date, their mutual friend Beth (Ari Graynor) blows up at them, that it’s weird that they’re still so comfortable with each other even though they’re separated and on their way to a divorce. This sets such a great stage for the story and in showcasing the unconventionality of Celeste and Jesse’s relationship. However, that level of comfort is diminished as the two of them try to move on with their lives and with other people. They begin to question their true feelings about each other and wonder if it is indeed possible to maintain their friendship. Behind them is an oddball cast of supporting players: Beth, her fiance Tucker (Eric Christian Olsen), Celeste and Jesse’s pot dealer buddy Skillz (McCormack), Celeste’s flamboyant co-worker Scott (Elijah Wood), and Riley (Emma Roberts), a young airheaded pop star who clashes professionally with Celeste.
The film is a bit lopsided in telling more of Celeste’s side of the story: There is a lot more exploration of her outings, her work life, and her interactions with her friends, colleagues, and suitors, yet Jesse, on his own, doesn’t seem to be around much for the audience to see. However, this perspective does allow Jones to showcase her acting talents, and bring to life the fascinating and emotionally conflicted character she wrote. Unlike many romantic comedy heroines whose sole goal is to find and keep love, Celeste has much more depth to her, and it’s clear that she’s a career woman, even in her heartbreak and desire to mend her heart. One of the funniest plot points is Celeste and her firm’s marketing of Riley’s latest record, and how a hilarious album art mistake leads to a frenzy. Though it’s random, in this film, it’s small points like this that make a big statement about a character. Jones’ performance as Celeste is also a highlight, if not the big highlight of the film. Known more for her comedic roles in films and TV shows (I Love You Man, Parks and Recreation), Jones is effortless in her delivery of sarcastic, sharp-tongued humor. She really stretches herself in emoting the building angst and frustration Celeste lives with in dealing with her separation from Jesse and in her other relationships. It’s one of her most authentic performances to date and it’s difficult to picture someone else in the role. Samberg, also more known for his roles in comedy (Saturday Night Live), turns in a very respectable dramatic effort as Jesse. He does benefit from the lovable and natural chemistry he shares with Jones—the two performers have known each other for a long time through the stand-up comedy circuit.
Aesthetically, Celeste and Jesse Forever’s portrait-like cinematography (featuring the beautiful landscapes of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Rhode Island) and mellow soundtrack give it a true indie feel. However, the real spirit comes from how the film takes on a different kind of love story—one that isn’t necessarily one of romance, but one of letting go. It’s one that’s layered and refreshing. Somehow maybe, ‘forever’ is still possible in the most unexpected way.
Rating: 8 out of 10
