A sparky cast and scenic vistas can’t quite overcome the suffocating singlemindedness of You’re Dating a Narcissist! That’s not just the name of the film – it’s also the title of a book written by psychology professor and podcaster Judy (Marisa Tomei), as well as Judy’s default diagnosis of basically anyone in a relationship, from best friend Diane (Joy Ride’s Sherry Cola, solid comic relief) to daughter Eva (Ciara Bravo), an artist studying in Southern California. When Eva announces her lightning-quick engagement to a seemingly perfect doctor, Judy hits the panic button and flies with Diane across the country to try to save her daughter from what she thinks is a fatal decision. 

First-time director Ann Marie Allison (who co-wrote the script with Jenna Milly) has cited personal experience with dating a narcissist as inspiration for the film, and there’s an undercurrent of righteous anger animating the film that feels honest and hard-earned. But Judy’s constant need to name and describe a narcissist – or NARK, in her eye-rolling shorthand – is close to her only identifiable character trait.  

In lesser hands, Judy would be insufferable, but Tomei’s innate charisma manages to blast through Judy’s layers of unlikeability and obsession. Tomei is undeniable – also great inspiration if you’re building out a Effortlessly Chic Academic Pinterest board – and she and Bravo forge an easy, believable chemistry as mother and daughter. That bond, and the gorgeous boutique hotel where much of the film takes place, are the biggest draws here. 

Screens again Monday, Oct. 27, Galaxy Highland.

You’re Dating a Narcissist!

World Premiere. 91 min. Directed by Ann Marie Allison. Starring Marisa Tomei, Sherry Cola, Ciara Bravo, Marco Pigossi.

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A graduate of the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas, Kimberley has written about film, books, and pop culture for The Austin Chronicle since 2000. She was named Editor of the Chronicle in 2016; she previously served as the paper’s Managing Editor, Screens Editor, Books Editor, and proofreader. Her work has been awarded by the Association of Alternative Newsmedia for excellence in arts criticism, team reporting, and special section (Best of Austin). The Austin Alliance for Women...