What happens when an unstoppable force (Meryl Streep’s
unbridled optimism) meets an immovable object (Tommy Lee Jones’ craggy scowl)?
Well, they go to marriage counselling and seek to repair years of damage to
their emotions and libido.
The film’s biggest strength lies in the fact that it’s very
much a two-hander. It’s absolutely Streep and Jones’ film and both actors are
more than game. It’s solidly structured around these two with only one
significant supporting actor in the form of Steve Carell’s therapist. As such
it doesn’t feel cluttered and eschews unnecessary comic relief.
It’s relatively gentle humour in spite of broaching the
subject of sex matter-of-factly but it plays to the actors’ strengths. The set
pieces are fun but never at the expense of characterisation. Jones’ guttural
growl when faced with uncomfortable situations is always pleasing and Streep
takes charge of the film’s more heightened moments with seemingly effortless
panache.
It’s warmly natural, touchingly tender and occasionally very
funny. It’s not quite as predictable as you might expect and character
expectations are sensitively subverted. The progression feels balanced and
fair; it’s not a battle of the sexes. It walks the fine line between schmaltz
and melodrama (in the best possible way) while managing a few barbs but doesn’t
resort to comedy of embarrassment tropes.
It has a lot to say about relationships and how, without
noticing, they drift into monotony and need reassessing – especially as years
turn to decades. It might not be breaking new ground but they’re resonant
themes and it’s refreshing to see sex approached in a way that isn’t puerile or
throwaway.
Unfortunately it’s slightly marred by a jarringly fast wrap
up and an ill-suited punchline (that strangely chimes with similar problems in
the last act of Take This Waltz) but there’s plenty to admire in the thoughtful
restraint of this post-middle age comedy-drama.
★★★★★
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