The Incredible Jessica James (2017) | Film Review
*article originally written in 2017*
The Incredible Jessica James (2017)
Directed by: James C. Strouse
Starring: Jessica Williams Chris O'Dowd, Lakeith Stanfield, Noel Wells
The Incredible Jessica James follows Jessica, a spirited playwright navigating life and love after a breakup, as she meets Boone (Chris O'Dowd), a recently divorced man. What could have been a thoughtful exploration of relationships and personal growth instead becomes an 83-minute film that feels more like a pilot for a TV series than a standalone movie.
Jessica Williams, known for her sharp wit on The Daily Show, brings charisma to her role, but the character lacks depth and direction. Jessica’s passion for theatre—a central theme of the story—feels underdeveloped, leaving no satisfying resolution to her ambitions. While her energy and personality create a vibrant atmosphere, the weak script gives her little to work with, resulting in a protagonist who struggles to resonate meaningfully with the audience.
One of the film’s more compelling elements is Jessica's dynamic with her ex, Damon (Lakeith Stanfield). The interplay between real-life moments and Jessica's imaginative dream sequences about Damon offers a glimpse of something unique. Unfortunately, this narrative thread is left largely unexplored, missing the opportunity to delve into the complexities of post-breakup emotions and the lingering presence of past relationships.
Chris O'Dowd shines as Boone, bringing charm and authenticity to the story. His chemistry with Jessica feels genuine, and his character is one of the few that feels fully realised, even as he grapples with his own confusion and challenges. Boone’s grounded presence provides a necessary counterbalance to Jessica’s more chaotic energy.
Ultimately, The Incredible Jessica James is a passable but uninspired film. Its scattered life lessons lack weight, and the absence of a strong narrative arc leaves it feeling forgettable. While it’s not terrible, it falls short of greatness and misses the opportunity to explore its themes with the depth they deserve.