Kenya Barris’ sitcom Black-ish was renowned for its ability to tackle questions about race in a format usually reserved for 30-minute family shenanigans. Its best episodes were unafraid to drop the laughs while unflinchingly discussing important issues. So, it’s disappointing that You People, Barris’ feature directorial debut, too often feels like a preachy, overlong sitcom.

Jonah Hill co-wrote the script with Barris and stars as Ezra, an L.A stockbroker whose real dream is to go big with the podcast he co-hosts with best friend Mo (Sam Jay). Ezra’s Jewish, but he’s more comfortable discussing the Black movies, music, and culture he grew up loving. When he meets costume designer Amira (Lauren London), he finds someone he instantly feels seen by, and it’s not long before the two start talking marriage. The only obstacle? Their parents, specifically Ezra’s mother Shelley (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), whose attempts at...