Dysfunctional families have long been one of my favorite movie themes. With Christmas just around the corner, it feels like a seasonal tradition to stock my queue with my top picks, and one that always makes the list is the 2010 film "Cyrus," starring Marisa Tomei, John C. Reilly and Jonah Hill.
Directed by the Duplass brothers, the movie centers on the budding romance between John (John C. Reilly) and Molly (Marisa Tomei), and the awkward tension that arises when John realizes he’s essentially a third wheel in her life.
What is 'Cyrus' about?
The film opens with a glimpse into John’s (John C. Reilly) somewhat cluttered life, seemingly lived alone. It quickly becomes apparent he’s engaged in a private activity—one his ex-wife, Jamie (Catherine Keener), happens to stumble upon. After a brief, awkward explanation, she informs him she’s there to take him to a party.
Cut to John slouched on a couch, looking slightly pitiful, as Jamie and her new husband, Tim (Matt Walsh), encourage him to mingle. What sets "Cyrus" apart is its quasi-documentary style, giving the film a raw, immediate feeling. You can even catch glimpses of the actors’ real-time reactions as the scenes unfold.
After a few drinks, John ends up urinating on the front lawn, only to be interrupted by Molly (Marisa Tomei). She startles him, teasing him for taking her favorite spot. Then, as Human League’s 1981 classic “Don’t You Want Me” begins to play, he dashes off to sing along. His drunken, slurred attempt at karaoke is a comedic mess — much to the amusement of the other partygoers — but that’s when Molly enters. In one of my favorite scenes ever, she transforms the moment, breaking into song with the fervor and devotion of a true Human League fan.
As their romance develops, complications arise, particularly when John meets her socially awkward son, Cyrus (Jonah Hill). John quickly feels like a third wheel, and things only worsen as Cyrus actively meddles in their relationship, determined to sabotage it.
Why you should stream 'Cyrus'
"Cyrus" is a film I’ve returned to again and again. Marisa Tomei charms effortlessly, balancing her love and devotion for her son with her growing affection for John. Her portrayal of a mother unwilling (or perhaps unready) to let go of her child is as nuanced as it is heartfelt.
Jonah Hill is a revelation here. Rather than turning the role into a broad comedy, he delivers a deeply relatable, emotionally layered performance as a son too close to his mother, and a surprisingly formidable foil to John C. Reilly’s character.
There are countless subtle moments to savor, from the uneasy intimacy between John and his ex-wife to the film’s heavy reliance on improvisation, revealed in a 2010 interview, something that gives the movie a spontaneity and authenticity often missing from mainstream films.
Ultimately, "Cyrus "has become a personal classic in portraying family dysfunction. If you’ve never seen it, make sure to check it out this holiday season. It’s a film that will leave you laughing, cringing and, ultimately, smiling.
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