Arnaud Desplechin's "The Thing That Hurts" Begins Production

French filmmaker Arnaud Desplechin has commenced production on his latest feature, "The Thing That Hurts," a bittersweet comedy featuring an ensemble cast that includes Alfre Woodard, J.K. Simmons, Felicity Jones, Jason Schwartzman, and Noémie Merlant. Filming began on April 7, 2026, in Brussels and Paris, with the project being executive-produced by Wes Anderson and financed by Silver Screen Global. The film is produced by 3SIX9 Studios, CG Cinema, Alaz Film, and Wrong Men.

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"The Thing That Hurts" revolves around a group of patients who gather in Paris following the death of their esteemed American psychoanalyst. Initially convened to honor her memory, the gathering evolves into a profound exploration of grief, identity, and the complex relationships that emerge among the attendees. As unexpected connections form, long-buried truths come to light, revealing the lasting impact of the therapist on their lives. Desplechin has described the film as a comedy about expats in Paris, likening it to "Midnight in Paris," and noting that it features seven interconnected stories.

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The screenplay is co-written by Desplechin and Kamen Velkovsky, who infuses the narrative with elements of American comedy. The film marks the first acquisition for Gravel Lake Entertainment, a new sales and production company launched by Grant Mohrman, who previously worked at Concourse Media. Mohrman emphasized the company's commitment to supporting original voices in cinema, stating, “Our mission is to find them, protect that vision, and connect their work to audiences everywhere.”

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Arnaud Desplechin is recognized as one of France's most distinctive filmmakers, with a history of premiering his works at the Cannes Film Festival. His notable films include "My Golden Days," "A Christmas Tale," and "Ismael’s Ghosts." Desplechin's previous works have garnered critical acclaim, with "My Golden Days" winning the César Award for Best Director. He has participated in the Cannes Film Festival nine times, solidifying his reputation in the international film community.

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In discussing "The Thing That Hurts," Desplechin expressed his intention to blend humor with emotional depth, aiming to create a narrative that resonates with audiences through its exploration of complex themes. Mohrman highlighted the film's strong international ensemble cast and its potential to mark a new chapter in Desplechin's career.

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While the film has generated excitement due to its star-studded cast and the involvement of renowned filmmakers, some critics have expressed skepticism regarding the blending of comedy and serious themes, questioning whether the film can effectively balance these elements.

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As production continues, further details about the film's distribution and international sales are expected to be announced. The film is anticipated to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the intersection of personal narratives and broader societal themes in contemporary cinema.

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