If you feel uncomfortable while watching "People Like Us" don't feel badly as you will probably not be in the minority.  As films are made to entertain and make lots of money, this current Dreamworks release doesn't and won't.

While presenting a watchable and creditable effort by Alex Kurtzman, who directed and co-authored "People," the screenplay, 'inspired by true events' is disappointing. Anytime you see "inspired" in the ads, be very careful and know that reality is probably more interesting than a Hollywood fictionalized account.

A very presentable Chris Pine (Sam) a wheeler- dealer, whose last deal went south, learns his father has died.  Returning to his childhood home he discovers that his father left him a roll of bills amounting to 150,000 dollars. His joy is ephemeral, however, as his father puts a crimp into his delirium with a note stating that the money is earmarked to his half sister he never knew he had.

Until this time, the unfolding story had some merit.  Enter half-sister, a very beautiful and attractive Frankie (Elizabeth Banks).  With her appearance the storyline becomes a bit convoluted as, at first, he doesn't tell Frankie a single mother living modestly who works for the gross owner of a sleazy strip joint. I believe we've been privy to this predicament before.
 
At any rate, Sam keeps his secret from a lonely and desperate Frankie. The audience is nervously wondering when he will tell her of their relationship and the money, but Sam has his own agenda, stupid as it is. This element opens many tributaries and obscene possibilities.  Here is where the discomfort comes into play for the audience as they do not know what, if anything, will transpire. 

The performances by everyone, especially Michelle Pfeiffer as Sam's mother, are all first-rate which saves the slow paced and annoying scenario.
 
2 Bagels out of 4!