Movie Review: ‘The Stress is Killing Me’ – If given the chance, what or who would you rather be?

Reunions are always a mix of nostalgia, awkward moments, and the occasional life crisis. There is always the moment of introspection when you are around your old peers that makes you question friendships, rediscover yourself or sometimes be forced into having a midlife crisis.

This debut feature film ‘The Stress is Killing Me‘ attempts to capture all of that in a lighthearted, feel-good comedy. Written, directed, and produced by Tom Carroll, the film follows eight college friends who reconnect 20 years after graduation, only to realize that life hasn’t quite turned out the way they imagined. They decide to spend the week together whilst imagining they each were pursuing their dream careers instead of their actual jobs that they are all not exactly enthused with. What could go wrong over a week of living a dream?

That is the premise of this film, but the execution doesn’t quite convincingly nail it. The fantasy of switching careers and starting life afresh is something many people can relate to. Interestingly, this film approaches this premise through several characters with distinct backgrounds and very different dreams and aspirations career-wise. For instance, there is Kiki (played by Carly Christopher) a successful lawyer who wants to be a yoga instructor. Jason (played by Grayson Berry) who is killing it in advertising and marketing rather wishes he was a detective. Then, there is Franklin (played by Barry Landers) who owns a chain of restaurants but would rather be a chef. There’s even a Doctor Donna (played by Crystal Thomas) who sees herself as an artist.

The narrative tries its best to allow for as many comedic moments considering its premise and what seems like the contrast between the characters, their actual jobs and their dream careers. But the comedy doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential.

One of the biggest struggles ‘The Stress is Killing Me‘ faces is its large ensemble cast. With eight characters all vying for screen time, none of them get the depth they deserve. We get quick introductions to their lives and aspirations, but the film doesn’t give us enough to truly invest in their journeys. Some backstories feel glossed over, and the relationships between the characters and any lingering conflicts or unresolved tensions between them aren’t fully explored. As a result, while the group dynamics feel authentic, there’s a sense that we’re only scratching the surface of what could have been a much richer narrative.

The film does manage to find some success in its humour, however. Though it is consistent at best. The mix of situational absurdity and the awkwardness of some of the characters gives you enough to laugh about. It is obvious that Tom Carroll wanted to keep the dialogue sharp and witty, but several of these bits fell flat and seemed off-timed. Other comedic attempts feel forced, especially in some of the much lengthier scenes. Regardless, this feels like a film that would still charm you with laughter if you watch it in the right mood or with the right company.

Another thing that seems to work for the film is the quality of the acting performances. The chemistry among the cast makes it as though they have known each other for 20-plus years. The interactions feel natural and convincing. But the standout performer for me would be Carly Christopher who plays the character Kiki.

Visually, ‘The Stress is Killing Me‘ doesn’t take many risks. It plays things safe with its cinematography and direction, keeping everything straightforward and functional. The entire film is set in the characters’ rented house with a pool. The sound design however deploys some cheesy sound effects to add to the film’s comedic tone but if you ask me, I would say those were not needed and took away from the film rather than adding to it.  

Ultimately, ‘The Stress is Killing Me‘ is just another feel-good indie film that has its few moments of charm but never fully realizes its full potential. It is the kind of film that you would enjoy if you have low expectations for it, especially when you don’t have much else going for you.

I will score it 5.5/10. Tom Carroll plays its safe with this feature film debut that might not work for many people but might just send several others down a path of introspection whilst they struggle with a midlife crisis or down the path of self-discovery.