Everyone in the comedy Stress Positions by writer-director Theda Hammel is captivated by Bahlul (Qaher Harhash), a 19-year-old Moroccan model recovering from a broken leg. Bahlul is under the care of his white uncle, Terry Goon (John Early), in the Brooklyn “party house” of Terry’s soon-to-be-ex-husband, Leo (John Roberts). Terry protects Bahlul like an injured bird, eradicating any remnants of the house’s previous festivities and asserting that his nephew is too injured for visitors. Yet, Terry’s efforts to ward off people only heighten the intrigue surrounding Bahlul.
Taking place amid the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, any deviation from the monotony of self-isolation holds a particular allure—especially when it involves someone whose profession is to radiate allure. Hammel seamlessly integrates thematic elements into her pandemic comedy, infusing it with vibrant, eccentric, and comedic characterizations. For example, Terry’s overprotective demeanor is depicted as a frantic response to his past conservative views post-9⁄11. His close friend, Karla (portrayed by Hammel), playfully mocks his actions during her visit to the brownstone, yet she also contributes to the chaos. Unhappy in her relationship with a lesbian writer (Amy Zimmer), Karla not only flirts with Bahlul but also with a Grubhub delivery person (Faheem Ali).
The film’s dialogue crackles with vitality, capturing the self-absorbed toxicity of the characters, particularly their obliviousness when making insensitive comments in what they consider a “safe” environment. Hammel paints a picture of deeply dissatisfied individuals, with Bahlul’s presence heightening their anxieties amidst the pandemic backdrop. Karla exaggerates her “Mediterranean” heritage in the presence of people of color, while her privileged partner bemoans the childhood trauma of being surrounded by “blondes.” They are quick to critique America’s shortcomings but equally quick to dismiss Bahlul’s homeland without comprehending its location or cultural nuances.
While Stress Positions excels in balancing character revelations with a series of escalating comedic events, such as the quirky upstairs neighbor (Rebecca F. Wright) who fixes the internet without a mask, or Terry straining his back slipping on raw chicken, the convergence of multiple storylines may overwhelm viewers as the narrative unfolds. Some subplots, like the surveillance aspect, feel underdeveloped and tend towards conventional absurdity.
Despite occasional meandering, the film remains a insightful exploration of Bahlul’s character. Rather than reducing him to a mere symbol of casual racism, the film delves into how he navigates the currents of white toxicity that surround him. Bahlul becomes a focal point of desire and menace to those around him, who aim to possess, imitate, or influence him. Through Bahlul’s introspective moments and glimpses of his past, the film illuminates his upbringing by a conservative white mother, showcasing his resilience amidst the chaos and self-absorption of the Brooklynites fixated on him.
In essence, Stress Positions provides a sharp and humorous commentary on contemporary discontent and the pandemonium it incites, deftly intertwining personal narratives with broader societal issues.
Cast: John Early, Qaher Harhash, Theda Hammel, Rebecca F. Wright, Amy Zimmer, Faheem Ali, Davidson Obennebo, John Roberts Director: Theda Hammel Screenwriter: Theda Hammel Distributor: Neon Running Time: 95 min Rating: NR Year: 2024
If possible, please show your support for Slant Magazine.
Since 2001, we have delivered candid and uncompromising insights into the realms of film, music, television, video games, theater, and more. Independent publications like Slant have encountered challenges in recent times, but we are committed to maintaining our content free and accessible, without any paywalls or fees.