The film landscape often focuses on franchises and special effects. Yet, sometimes, powerful acting within a well-crafted script stands out. Such is the case with HBO’s Miss You, Love You, featuring Oscar-winner Allison Janney and Andrew Rannells. The film is penned and directed by Oscar-winner Jim Rash.
Allison Janney portrays Diane, a widow confronting her husband’s funeral with a stranger, Jamie, played by Andrew Rannells. Jamie is her estranged son’s assistant. The film’s events unfold over a few days, showcasing the duo’s darkly comedic interactions. Despite clashing at first, Diane and Jamie discover they need each other to move on.
Jim Rash drew inspiration from personal experience. When his father passed away from Parkinson’s eight years ago, Rash’s sister couldn’t attend the funeral. Her assistant replaced her, sparking the idea for the film. Rash shared with Newsweek, “I didn’t know him, no one knew him… it’s when we’re at our most conflicting.”
Rash used personal anecdotes in the script, leading to a film that feels authentic. Instead of CGI or explosions, Miss You, Love You delivers a raw exploration of grief and love. Janney’s connection to the material was strong. She had encountered an earlier play version and found the film script irresistible.
Andrew Rannells found the role unique, noting, “I don’t get offered parts like this… it was huge for me.” Both actors decided to memorize the script entirely before filming. This preparation allowed them to focus on performance. Rannells stated, “We got to rehearse it like a play… it was probably the most satisfying thing I’ve ever done.”
The film benefited from their theater backgrounds. They used rehearsal time to explore Diane and Jamie’s dynamic. Janney noted it as both challenging and rewarding. Rash, aware of Janney’s capabilities, focused on exploring Diane’s complexity. He explained, “We can do a take that is prickly and assertive… and then through a smile.”
Diane’s key emotional trigger is her son’s absence at the funeral, relayed through a message via Jamie. Rash explained, “She has so much power and agitation at this stranger… once we learn context or learn something about them, it takes this release.”
Rannells’ character, Jamie, faces his own struggles. At 47, he navigates a life delayed by caring for his sick parents. Rannells describes Jamie as emotionally stalled. Rash connects Jamie’s challenges to broader human experiences.
Rannells appreciated the nuanced portrayal of Jamie’s queerness, “Jamie’s sexuality is a piece of what makes him complicated, but not the most complicated.” Rash aimed to write a queer character with relatable, human struggles.
The film stands out as a dark comedy, blending grief and humor. Rash’s experience in balancing tones is evident. He said, “In these movies, when you’re dealing with grief… we’re just waiting to exhale with some laughter.” The film portrays grief and humor alongside each other, revealing an honest depiction of mourning.
Miss You, Love You is available for streaming on HBO Max starting May 29.