The film "The Problem With People" commences with a global backdrop of various wars and conflicts. Fergus, (Des Keough), a moribund Irish man, condemns this violent wave of humanity, triggered off by the news from his television. Featuring plenty of generalized jests and scenarios, the movie, boasting a comedic script by Paul Reiser and Wally Marzano-Lesnevich, is mildly amusing throughout its 100-minute run time, guided adeptly by director Chris Cottam.
Fergus wishes to quell one war before his departure: the dispute within his own brood. Many years prior, a rift occurred between his grandfather and his brother, who subsequently relocated to America. Fergus charges his son Ciaran (Colm Meaney) with reaching out to his estranged cousin Barry (Reiser) in New York to steer a family reunion. Soon, the American cousin visits the small Irish village where his relatives reside. While Ciaran is modest and grounded, Barry is a powerful real estate magnate. Their cultural and personal differences result in conflicts akin to typical situation comedies.
As expected, the village is brimming with eccentrics who provide comic relief. Despite their non-specific portrayal, the actors manage to extract occasional laughter, expect for a pair that persistently attempts a Brooklyn accent throughout the film. The humor depends heavily on the audience's familiarity with this trope and common cultural references. Regrettably, the narrative lacks originality.
Even as tensions between the cousins rise from genial congeniality to overt antagonism, the actors adeptly render the film engaging. Despite Ciaran and Barry's competition, they remain harmless. While this ensures easy viewership, the movie misses a certain grit. The film concludes on a happy note, providing a respite to viewers, despite lacking captivating engagement.
Armed with the combined efforts of cinematographers Richard Kendrick and David Odd, director Cottam successfully presents the splendor of Ireland. He intersperses the film with a long animated segment that narrates the history of the family feud, adding a touch of inventiveness. Although "The Problem With People" is only mildly entertaining, it offers a brief distraction from the broader tribulations of the world.
