Comedy Film Critique: 'Splitsville' - A Lively, Wacky Exploration of Unfaithfulness with a Spark of Cinematic Panache
In the world of contemporary cinema, the screwball comedy has found a new lease of life with the release of "Splitsville." Directed by Michael Angelo Covino and written by Covino and Kyle Marvin, this film follows the lives of four central characters – Carey, Paul, Julie, and Ashley – as they navigate the complexities of relationships.
The film opens with Carey, a gym teacher, driving along a highway with his life coach wife, Ashley. Their seemingly perfect life takes a turn when an erratic driver causes an accident, leading Ashley to question the stability of their marriage. Meanwhile, Paul and his wife Julie, who share an open marriage, find their agreement tested in "Splitsville."
The film is a pattern of musical chairs with the characters' relationships, featuring a series of twists and turns that can become tiresome but are also intriguingly unpredictable. The performances, particularly that of John Lithgow, bring a welcome perspective amidst the male-dominated mayhem.
"Splitsville" unfolds in clattering one-take set pieces and nakedly frank heart-to-hearts, mirroring the roller coaster ride that is modern relationships. The film's theme of self-deception is reflected in the reversals that lead the characters back to where they started.
Covino and Marvin, who previously directed "The Climb," bring their unique storytelling style to "Splitsville." The film, a Neon release, is rated R for language, sexual content, and graphic nudity. It runs for 100 minutes and has received a rating of three stars out of four.
After the accident, Carey seeks solace at the lakeside home of his childhood best friend, Paul. The bond between Paul and Carey is so strong that Paul even checks for ticks on Carey in the shower. As the plot thickens, Ashley decides to seek new experiences, leading to some unexpected encounters.
"Splitsville" is a refreshing take on the modern screwball comedy, reminiscent of films from the 1930s, but with a distinctly 21st-century twist. It's a film that will leave you laughing, cringing, and thinking about the complexities of human relationships.
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