There’s just something about Duplass brothers movies that resonates with me every single time and See You When I See You, directed by Jay Duplass, is no different. It is without a doubt one of the more thought provoking movies of the SXSW Film and TV Festival so far, offering a pertinent look at grief, loss, and the crippling impact of post traumatic stress disorder.

Based on the memoir Tragedy Plus Time by Adam Cayton-Holland, See You When I See You tells the true story of a family struggling with the loss of a loved one. The movie primarily focuses on Aaron (Cooper Raiff), a comedy writer who is suffering the most due to his close relationship with his sister and the toll her suicide has taken on him.

See You When I See You captures the complexities, darkness, and emotional suppression that come with loss as audiences gain insight into four different and unique journeys that each member of the family must navigate. In doing so, Duplass alongside screenwriter Cayton-Holland is given the space to develop these characters and show how people throw themselves into anything and everything to avoid confronting their grief. The focus on PTSD is particularly moving, illustrating the daily challenge of simply waking up in the morning and facing the world with striking honesty.

Equally funny as it is emotional, See You When I See You can be a tough watch at times but for all the right reasons. The emotional payoff may not be quite as powerful as it could have been, or perhaps as strong as some other Duplass works, but it still succeeds in unpacking the vast range of emotions explored throughout the runtime. Many audience members will likely find themselves reaching for more than a few tissues.

Cooper Raiff is brilliant in the leading role. He handles the comedic elements with impeccable timing while also showing impressive range in the more serious moments. Raiff is supported by an extremely strong cast, with Lucy Boynton and David Duchovny standing out in particular. Boynton in particular delivers one of the most memorable scenes in the entire movie.

The music design complements the tone of the movie extremely well, with each piece feeling like it’s been carefully matched to the moment it accompanies. There’s also intricate details woven throughout the runtime that are wonderful to notice, which includes a moment involving an “alpha male” attending therapy that highlights how even those who appear strongest can suffer. It’s a small but incredibly effective touch that elevates the whole experience.

While See You When I See You may not be entirely unique, with grief and loss being themes explored extensively before, with Duplass’ stellar direction and an equally strong script from Cayton-Holland, the movie does more than enough to justify its existence. The result is a raw and ultimately relatable portrayal of PTSD that is elevated by a stunning cast. Definitely one I’d recommend checking out.