© Barton Cortright
“The Feeling That the Time For Doing Something Has Passed” is the hilarious and provocative debut feature film by Joanna Arnow, who wrote, directed, edited, and starred in this unconventional comedy. The film is as uproariously hilarious as it is provocatively transgressive and personal. Arnow stars as Ann, a character who is far removed from your typical rom-com protagonist. Trapped in the monotony of a soul-sucking 9-to-5 job, Ann seeks out a series of BDSM encounters with various men, each promising an escape from the dull throes of corporate life and providing a glimpse into the protagonist’s wildest fantasies.
Directed by: Joanna Arnow
Year: 2023
Country: USA
Length: 87 minutes
From its first frame, where we are greeted with the unforgettable image of Ann, fully in the nude, attempting to engage her indifferent partner by humping his body, Arnow signals that we’re in for a fully uncensored narrative that strays from the beaten path. The film structures its narrative into chapters, each named after one of Ann’s bed partners, mapping out her tumultuous journey toward self-discovery and experiencing a genuine connection.
This movie is a refreshingly original take on the genre of the romantic comedy, subverting the clichés and expectations of the audience. Arnow does not shy away from showing the raw and awkward aspects of sex and love, often exposing herself in full nudity and engaging in self-deprecating humor. The film is also very personal, as it draws from Arnow’s own experiences and background as a Jewish woman living in New York, delving into Ann’s relationship with her parents (portrayed by Arnow’s actual parents). The film portrays Ann’s quest to find meaning and direction in her life.
Ann is a paradox of hilarious awkwardness and conscious desire. Her character constantly finds herself in rather dark comedic moments of social blunders, yet these instances stand apart from her pursuit of masochistic fantasies. Within her sexual explorations, Ann displays striking autonomy, guiding her partners with clear intent and firm boundaries. This assertive control illuminates a character who owns her choices—unflinchingly aware and in command—presenting a bold narrative of female empowerment that’s both intellectually engaging and provocatively entertaining.
The film, which takes inspiration from the aesthetics and sensibilities of the Mumblecore movement and the Swedish director Roy Andersson, creates a realistic and spontaneous style that captures the mundane and absurd moments of everyday life. The film uses long takes, minimal music, natural lighting, and deadpan dialogue to create a dry tone that contrasts with the outrageous situations that Ann finds herself in. The film also has a heartfelt and sincere side, as it shows Ann’s vulnerability and loneliness, and her eventual connection with Chris (Babak Tafti), a man who respects and cares for her.
Arnow’s film is a celebration of her multifaceted skill as a filmmaker and a fearless performer. With its Dutch premiere at the Leiden International Film Festival, “The Feeling That the Time For Doing Something Has Passed” stands out as a beacon of originality in the romantic comedy genre. This film is a must-see for anyone who values comedies that are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining, offering a fresh, honest, and very raw glimpse into the complexities of modern womanhood. As visually explicit and genuine as it is, the film is undoubtedly a rare find in contemporary US cinema—one that will stay on the audience’s mind for a while, regardless of their thoughts on the film,
“The Feeling That the Time For Doing Something Has Passed” had its Dutch premiere at the 2023 Leiden International Film Festival, where it played in the American Indie Competition.
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