For Worse

By: Kelly Kearney

Carving out a unique space among the many comedy entries at this year’s SXSW, the film For Worse marks the feature directorial debut of “Transparent” star Amy Landecker. Wearing multiple hats as both writer and director, Landecker delivers a refreshingly raw and humorous exploration of life after divorce, capturing the chaos, vulnerability and unexpected joys of starting over in midlife.

Life and Love After 50

At the heart of the story is Lauren (Landecker), a recently divorced and sober woman from California searching for a renewed sense of purpose or, at the very least, a community to help fill the long hours of her newfound freedom. Hoping an acting class might guide her next steps, she instead finds herself entangled in a whirlwind of complex sexual awakenings, the realities of aging and the ever-present challenge of managing her sobriety. To make matters worse, she develops an attraction to her much younger scene partner, Sean (Nico Hiraga). Rather than sidestepping the messiness of middle-aged reinvention, For Worse leans into its most cringe-worthy, painfully honest and laugh-out-loud moments delivering a story that is as uncomfortable as it is cathartic.

Ageing Out of Sex?

A recurring theme in For Worse is society’s double standard when it comes to romance and aging. Lauren’s romantic entanglements—particularly her attraction to the twenty-something Sean—are met with scrutiny from her ex (Paul Adelstein) who, ironically, found love with a younger yoga instructor (Angelique Cabral). While the same actions from a middle-aged man are dismissed or even celebrated, Lauren feels the need to make excuses for her casual affair, burdened by the shame society places on women who embrace their sexuality once they reach a certain age. Landecker doesn’t just highlight this hypocrisy; she rips the cover off of it, forcing the audience into uncomfortable spaces and giving them space to poke fun.

While the film spends time pointing out the fact women don’t age out of sex, it does fall victim to some familiar agist tropes, like Gen-X to Gen-Z language barriers and the mistaken maternal dynamics Lauren faces whenever she and Sean are introduced. But for every tired cougar joke is a delightfully awkward relaness that makes this little movie a fun watch. The chemistry between Sean and Lauren is electric and holds the weight of this important turning point for them both. And while it is very easy to lean into the “young and dumb” tropes, Sean comes off as a free spirit and lacks the typical narcissistic traits associated with youth.

Directing a Talented Cast

Landecker’s direction brings both humor and heart to For Worse, balancing them seamlessly. Her keen observational style keeps even the broadest comedic moments rooted in emotional truth. By capturing life’s subtle awkwardness —stolen glances in a crowded room, a hesitant pause before a mistake, laughter tinged with insecurity — she lends the film a compelling authenticity that lingers beyond its funniest moments.

The exceptional supporting cast adds even greater depth and dimension to the film. Gaby Hoffmann brings her signature blend of eccentric wit and unfiltered honesty, making every scene crackle with exasperated laughter. Bradley Whitford, Landecker’s real-life husband, infuses his flirtations with Lauren with layers of charm and complexity, making their inevitable connection feel both natural and compelling. But it’s Missi Pyle as Lauren’s hilariously blunt best friend who steals nearly every scene. With razor-sharp timing, she delivers brutally honest one-liners while radiating a warmth that underscores the deep bond of longtime friendship. Between these women, no subject is off-limits – including Lauren’s more humiliatingly comedic moments. Pyle seizes every opportunity to shock, gleefully teasing Lauren about her “cougar” escapades with mischievous delight.

One standout scene finds Lauren and her friends cutting loose on the dance floor at a wedding reception, where physical comedy collides with the sobering realization that sometimes age does matter—but not in the way one might expect. Landecker’s gift for blending humor with moments of self-reflection shines here, making the sequence both hilarious and unexpectedly poignant.

Even in its more predictable moments, For Worse stands out through its sharp attention to detail, lived-in performances, and Landecker’s deft ability to balance comedy with real emotional weight. The film doesn’t just explore the trials of starting over—it embraces them, celebrating the beautifully messy reality of reinvention.

Worthy of a Watch?

A fresh take on new beginnings, For Worse blends humor with emotional depth, proving that reinvention doesn’t have an expiration date—and neither does love. Whether through physical comedy or quieter, more introspective moments, the film delivers a refreshingly honest and funny portrait of life’s unexpected second chances. Never taking itself too seriously or offering any groundbreaking ideas in the genre, it’s still a joy to watch this talented cast breathe life into this indie comedy. If you are at the crossroads of female empowerment and a midlife crisis, For Worse is a great way to spend a few hours stepping into Landecker’s world. Watch it while you are relaxing after a long day of work, but don’t laugh too hard or your pelvic floor might remind you why age sometimes isn’t just a number; it’s a whole panty-wetting vibe.