Landline

The 2017 comedy-drama ''Landline'' is a slice-of-life film that delves into the lives and relationships within a dysfunctional family set against the backdrop of 1990's Manhattan. Directed by Gillian Robespierre and with a screenplay by Robespierre and Elisabeth Holm, the movie stars Jenny Slate and Abby Quinn as Dana and Ali respectively, two sisters who stumble upon their father's infidelity. Jay Duplass stars as Ben, Dana's steadfast but slightly dull fiancé.

The DNA of ''Landline'' is essentially built upon the varied and quirky dynamics of this family unit, composed of Jenny Slate's Dana - a copy editor grappling with her own relationship issues, her rebellious younger sister Ali played by Abby Quinn, their nurturing but distrusting mother Pat, portrayed by Edie Falco, and their father Alan, played by John Turturro, a failed playwright who attempts to keep the spirit of the family alive.

Set in the pre-cell phone and internet world of the 1990s, the film is a nostalgic journey back in time, where people's lives were undisturbed by the influx of digital and social media. The title itself denotes the era where communication was not instant. "Landline" pays homage to the era, and even the characters' grappling with their secrets and discoveries, are in line with the slow-paced world where they are set and exist.

Dana, portrayed by Jenny Slate, is engaged but is going through a personal crisis. She is battling with the fear of missing out, as she feels trapped in her comfortable, but monotonous relationship with Ben, played by Jay Duplass. This crisis brings Dana closer to her teenage sister Ali, portrayed by Abby Quinn, who is herself tackling drug experimentation and the strains of teen romance. In their shared secrets and confessions, the audience witnesses a heartwarming evolution of their sisterly bond, giving the film an emotional core.

The strain on this Manhattan family becomes even more convoluted when the sisters stumble upon a collection of love poems their father had written to a mysterious woman. The sisters unite on this detective mission, contemplating whether to expose their father or confront him directly. The family drama bursts with witty humor, raw emotion, and the simple instances of life making it a somber journey enriched with life lessons.

Thriving on brilliant performances, Jenny Slate is terrific as the confused Dana. Her panic regarding her stagnant life is palpably relatable, making you empathize with her predicament. Abby Quinn, as the brash and bold Ali, impresses with her range, carrying the teenage angst with a certain grace. John Turturro and Edie Falco, bring their experience into play lovingly forming the distressed parental figures.

Where ''Landline'' really stands out is in its exploration of the universal struggles of life, family, and love. Although set more than two decades ago, the film manages to make these themes timeless. The looming theme of infidelity allows for an exploration of discontent and the longing within relationships. The screenplay is vibrant, filled with ferocious humor, and sprinkled with moments of genuine warmth and relatability, resulting in a well-rounded and entertaining narrative.

Robespierre's masterful direction and a terrific ensemble cast anchor this delightful comedy-drama. The movie's dialogues are sharp, funny, and often poignant, capturing the essence of the era. The cinematography captures the aesthetics of the 90s effectively, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere.

In essence, ''Landline'' is a character-driven dramedy that excels in creating a vivid world of the 1990s and channelling the spirit of the era. It paints a sincere and sometimes painfully accurate picture of family dynamics, relationships, and the occasional disillusionment that comes with growing up. The film's universal themes, coupled with its strong performances and sharp storytelling, make it an engaging watch. It's a quirky, emotional, and comedic ride through the complexities of life that is sure to resonate with audiences.