Arnaud Desplechin Shares Insights on His Touching English-Language Film ‘The Thing That Hurts,’ Inspired by a Beloved Psychoanalyst’s Clients at Cannes Market
Desplechin’s Upcoming Film Generates Buzz at Cannes
Although renowned filmmaker Arnaud Desplechin is absent from this year’s Cannes Film Festival, his latest English-language project, The Thing That Hurts, is creating a significant impact at the market in collaboration with Gravel Lake Entertainment. The film features an ensemble cast, including Alfre Woodard, J.K. Simmons, Jason Schwartzman, André Holland, Noémie Merlant, Golshifteh Farahani, Teddie Allen, and Felicity Jones—making it one of Desplechin’s most star-studded productions to date.
In an exclusive interview, Desplechin discussed his inspiration and the creative process behind the film. "I was born to make this film," he said, revealing his deep interest in psychoanalysis that has spanned over three decades. The idea originated from Kamen Velkovsky, with whom he previously collaborated on Two Pianos. Desplechin noted that J.K. Simmons was drawn to the project because of the script’s quality, calling it “well-written.”
Desplechin described the film as a “bittersweet comedy,” reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums. "It’s extremely funny, extremely melancholic, but it’s more funny than melancholic," he said. He highlighted that the narrative revolves around an ensemble cast, where each character embarks on individual adventures, contributing to the overall comedic tone.
Alfre Woodard plays the pivotal role of the psychoanalyst. Desplechin praised her decision to take on this role without prior knowledge of the creative team. He reminisced about his admiration for her work, especially in films like Grand Canyon and Clemency. "There’s a real gravitas to her portrayal," he added.
Felicity Jones’s performance also garnered attention, with Desplechin emphasizing the comedic aspect of her character. "We’ve recently seen her in The Brutalist, in a very, very tragic role. Here she’s in a comic role," he said, highlighting her character’s spirited lines that capture the film’s essence.
Desplechin, who has directed English-language films like Esther Khan and Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian, reflected on his growth as a filmmaker, noting the learning experiences gained from past projects. He emphasized that preparation for The Thing That Hurts involved extensive readings and script revisions in collaboration with the actors, which prepared them well for filming.
Set in Paris, the film incorporates a contemporary theme of expatriates living in a foreign land. Desplechin explained, "Alfre’s character is the most in exile," illustrating the nuances of her character’s experience as a New Yorker practicing psychoanalysis in France.
Desplechin elaborated on the dynamic interactions among characters, drawing parallels to A Christmas Tale and emphasizing the individuality each character brings to their relationships with the psychoanalyst.
Wes Anderson’s involvement as an executive producer came through a connection with Atilla Yücer. Desplechin shared insights into his long-standing friendship with Anderson, which helped facilitate his contribution to the film.
As Hollywood increasingly taps into European cinema, Desplechin expressed concern about political changes in the U.S. impacting the cultural landscape. "The country is changing in a way that is irreversible," he stated, reflecting on the themes of displacement and identity prevalent in his latest work.
The Thing That Hurts promises to intrigue audiences by exploring these complexities, culminating in a scene where a character must confront the reality of returning to a homeland undergoing profound changes.
