It's Complicated

Divorce is messy. No matter what the circumstances, your ex is never entirely out of your life. Whether, it’s weddings, holidays, funerals or court dates, circumstances will often force you to face your past love. Your current state of mind is immaterial, whatever attracted you to your mate in the first place is still there. It is your attitude and perspective that has changed. When enough time has past that you are able to see with fresh eyes, those old attractions may creep back in on you. This is the premiss for It’s Complicated.

What makes this film so throughly enjoyable is the fine cast. Meryl Streep is her bubbly vivacious best. Alec Baldwin is a rogue and alternates between a jealous lover and a pining one. His infidelity broke up their marriage, but he never stopped loving his wife. Also, in the cast is Steve Martin as the suitable prospect that enters Meryl’s life about the same time as her ex. And then there’s the children. Their son has just graduated from college and a trip to New York for the ceremony has thrown his parents together. After a night of reminiscing and a lot of alcohol, the two reconnect in more ways than one and Meryl’s tidy little life that she fought so hard to build for herself is now unraveling at both ends.

It is the chemistry between these actors that makes the film work so well. Meryl and Alec are excellent together. John Krasinski is also very funny as the oldest daughter’s finance who discovers the affair by accident and must keep the information to himself. His little comedic touches are very welcome and he also brings a sweetness to the film.

This is a smart romantic comedy, with mature characters that proves that no matter what age you are, the equation never changes. We all want to be loved, desired and appreciated, even by our ex. It’s complicated.

Rating: First Run A+ for chemistry