Those People is a romantic drama film written and directed by Joey Kuhn, known for its delicate balance of emotional intimacy and sharp social commentary. Released in 2015, the movie follows a group of young, privileged New Yorkers whose lives become entangled in love, friendship, and the complexities of trust. At its heart, Those People is a coming-of-age story that examines the messy intersections between desire, loyalty, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of Manhattan’s elite art scene.
The story centers on Charlie (Jonathan Gordon), an aspiring painter in his twenties who has just lost his father, a disgraced financier caught in a high-profile scandal. Charlie’s closest friend, Sebastian (Jason Ralph), is the charming and enigmatic son of another wealthy family, whose own life is shadowed by public scrutiny. Bound by years of shared history, Charlie and Sebastian’s friendship borders on obsession—Charlie harbors deep romantic feelings for Sebastian, which he has never fully confessed. The two are inseparable until the arrival of Tim (Haaz Sleiman), a warm, confident pianist who begins to draw Charlie out of his insulated world.
As Charlie grows closer to Tim, he finds himself torn between the intoxicating pull of Sebastian and the promise of a healthier, more fulfilling relationship. Sebastian, meanwhile, becomes increasingly possessive and self-destructive, manipulating Charlie’s loyalty while spiraling under the weight of his own personal demons. The narrative builds a tension between love that is familiar but toxic, and love that is new but uncertain. The film captures this emotional push-and-pull with a level of nuance that resonates with anyone who has struggled to break free from the gravitational pull of a complicated relationship.
Visually, Those People embraces a muted, intimate aesthetic. The cinematography captures both the sleek sophistication of Manhattan’s Upper East Side and the quiet, vulnerable moments in dimly lit apartments and art studios. The musical score, driven by soft piano compositions, mirrors the film’s emotional tone—delicate, melancholic, and quietly hopeful. Director Joey Kuhn’s background in fine art is evident in the film’s painterly visuals, with careful attention to framing, lighting, and color.
The performances are a major strength of the film. Jonathan Gordon delivers a sensitive portrayal of Charlie, embodying the internal conflict between his loyalty to Sebastian and his desire for a life beyond emotional dependency. Jason Ralph’s Sebastian is magnetic yet deeply flawed, a character who oscillates between vulnerability and manipulation. Haaz Sleiman brings warmth and groundedness to Tim, offering a stark contrast to Sebastian’s volatility. Together, the cast creates a believable and emotionally charged dynamic that drives the film forward.
Ultimately, Those People is more than just a love triangle—it’s a story about growing up, letting go, and redefining what love means. It examines how privilege can both shelter and suffocate, and how self-worth is often shaped by the people we allow into our lives. The film’s ending is bittersweet, avoiding easy resolutions in favor of emotional authenticity. For viewers who appreciate slow-burn romances with layered characters and realistic emotional stakes, Those People offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
