Pansy is having one of those days where everything seems to irritate her. We’ve all experienced moments like this—getting angry with that driver who takes too long to park or feeling frustrated with someone in a store simply being cheerful while you’re having a rough time. This kind of irrational anger can boil over, often directed at those closest to us, like family members. Yet, most of the time, we manage to step out of that dark cloud without too much trouble.
In the film “Hard Truths,” Pansy, played by Marianne Jean-Baptiste, is stuck in this cycle of frustration. Her unhappiness saturates her life, leaving a trail of anger in her wake. No one escapes her ire—not the young doctor covering for her usual physician, not her son Moses who still lives at home, her lively sister Chantelle, or even her husband Curtley. Pansy’s criticism is relentless and often disproportionate: she’s upset by the littlest things, whether it’s how water is filled in a kettle or someone else’s happiness.
At times, the film is both humorous and heart-wrenching, as viewers find themselves captivated by Pansy’s unpredictable reactions. She often voices thoughts that many of us keep to ourselves because of societal norms. It’s likely that she’s long past the point of caring about these conventions.
“Hard Truths” places the audience right in the midst of Pansy’s chaotic life, highlighting her discontent without offering explanations. The people around her seem resigned to her outbursts, as they tiptoe around her emotions. For Moses and Curtley, it’s a struggle to navigate their days without walking on eggshells. Meanwhile, Chantelle makes an effort to reach out, especially around emotional milestones like their mother’s grave visit or a Mother’s Day gathering. This creates a poignant moment where Pansy’s pain becomes clearer, rooted in the grief of losing her mother. However, the film does not deliver neat resolutions, choosing instead to leave some threads unresolved.
Jean-Baptiste delivers a stunning performance that showcases her depth and talent, reinforcing the brilliance of director Mike Leigh’s unconventional approach to storytelling. Unfortunately, it’s disheartening that her work has already been overlooked by major award committees.
Pansy symbolizes the tragedy of unresolved emotions. Her constant bitterness doesn’t only sour life for those around her; it reflects her own deep struggles. While Chantelle tries to encourage her to see that she has a choice, it’s unclear if Pansy can or wants to change. “Hard Truths” is a short film at just 97 minutes, but it leaves a lasting impression, particularly when we find ourselves having our own “Pansy” moments.
This not-to-be-missed film will hit theaters on Friday, rated R for language, and has been received with high praise, earning three and a half stars out of four.
