Forsman and writers Kerr and Woods manage to not only add an implication of relationship discord, but also allude to many potential themes in the nine minute relationship dramedy that spotlights a recently split couple who are learning to cope without each other. Though they never really explain, it’s clear from the get go that these two have been through so much with one another and the cause of their inevitable split was both bitter and wrenching. Woods is rather superb as the inept Ron who just can’t seem to explain how much he still loves his ex Carol, who has moved on with her life and is in the middle of a much more fulfilling relationship.
So poor with words is he that rather than confess how he feels, he is more compelled to lure her back with memories of once was, which she refuses to give in to, even during his desperate attempts to spark a laugh from her. In the beginning I was put off by Forsman’s wobbly direction, but by the end, I found that I was rather fond of it since his handheld method adds a sense of voyeurism making us an awkward witness in a truly uncomfortable situation. He lures Carol back in hopes of reclaiming her favorite mug and the story takes an interesting turn as Carol suddenly seems a bit more content to feed his small efforts to win her back, and the writing duo create a rather hilarious scenario with Ron singing a morbid love song to Carol which not only extrapolates his feeble way with expression, but also hints that it’s probably the reason why Carol may still be in love with him.
With the simple gesture of the song, and Carol’s gaze of disbelief and then surprising charm there’s a great chemistry between the two actors that provide but a footnote in a possible turbulent situation that may or may not be over when Carol sinks into a stairwell. “I Fucking Hate You” is a wonderful glimpse at break ups and how we can cling to memories and sometimes forget the realities of a troubled relationship, and Forsman adds that extra touch in the camera work to make us feel as if we’re spectators, with the great dynamic between Woods and Kerr to give it that sweet touch of letting us in on a moment in these two rather unusual individuals lives. I’m not usually a fan of relationship dramas, but “I Fucking Hate You” is an entertaining absurdist glimpse at breaking up, clinging to memories, and the unusual bond two people can share that we may never understand.