Chelsea Alexandra
Life is all about adapting to change and how we respond to it. What we learn along the way is what truly shapes us into new versions of ourselves. There’s no finish line to having it all figured out. We are constantly growing and changing, especially when life decides to throw out a curve ball. For Lauren in For Worse, that curveball comes after the ink dries on her divorce papers. Directed by Amy Landecker, this heartfelt comedy explores the messy, unpredictable, and often hilarious journey of starting over.
The film opens with Lauren (Landecker) and her soon-to-be ex-husband, Chase (Paul Adelstein), finalizing their divorce. While Chase has already moved on with a younger woman, Lauren finds herself stuck. Now that she is newly single, she is unsure of what’s next. Thankfully, her best friend Julie (Missy Pyle) is there to push her forward, encouraging her to get back out there and embrace new experiences. One of those experiences comes in the form of an acting class.
Among the eclectic mix of young actors in the class, one in particular catches Lauren’s eye—Sean (Nico Hiraga), a charismatic commercial actor. The feeling seems to be mutual for Sean as they grow closer during rehearsal. Sean isn’tthe only person that Lauren bonds with within the group. She becomes close to the young group of actors in the class. After a night of bonding, Lauren finds herself invited to the wedding of Maria (Kiersey Clemons) and her partner. Hesitant at first, Sean encourages her to come with him. However, navigating a stranger’s wedding proves to be far more challenging than she expected. And with all the challenges that come up some chaos is bound to ensue.
For Worse offers a fresh, unexpected take on the coming-of-age genre. At its core, For Worse is about reinvention. Lauren may be dealing with divorce, but what she’s going through is a second adolescence—a period of uncertainty, self-doubt, and eventual self-discovery. Lauren’s journey is complex and messy—one moment, she’s making progress, and the next, she’s stumbling through situations. Unlike many films that tackle divorce and self-discovery with a heavier, more dramatic lens, For Worse keeps things light and fun. This film delivers laugh-out-loud moments while still tugging at the heartstrings. Even when Lauren finds herself in some less-than-ideal situations, you can’t help but root for her every step of the way.
For Worse follows many of the familiar beats of a romantic comedy. And yes, there’s plenty of chemistry between Lauren and Sean throughout the film. However, the bond between Lauren and Julie serves as the film’s emotional anchor. Their friendship provides warmth and humor amid the ups and downs. While romantic relationships come and go, their unwavering support for each other is what truly matters. The chemistry between Landecker and Pyle is effortless. It’s this friendship that gives For Worse its heart.
Landecker’s unapologetic honesty about her experience as a woman in this stage of life is both refreshing and deeply authentic. Her perspective on such gives a unique layer to the film. The story is, at least in part, drawn from her own emotions and experiences, which creates a film that is personal and that personal emotion is felt by the audience. With its charming performances and sharp humor For Worse is a delightful and refreshing comedy that proves starting over can be messy, beautiful, and everything in between.
