Logan Sork Film Reviews
Marriage Story
Divorce is a tricky thing to talk about, both in reality and when it comes to film. Divorce dramas are nothing new to the world of cinema and have some of the most iconic films of all time registered under that particular genre. However, just because something isn’t new doesn’t mean it can’t be improved upon. The problem I encounter with most of the films focusing on the subject matter is that, while compelling, they always seem to favor one side over the other. This is not the case however with Noah Baumbach’s latest film, which explores the complicated world of divorce in a well-balanced and insightful drama.
Marriage Story is written and directed by Noah Baumbach and stars Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, Laura Dern, Alan Alda, Ray Liotta, Julie Haggerty, and Merritt Weaver. The story follows Charlie and Nicole Barber (Driver and Johansson), a respective theater director and actor as they are approaching the end of their marriage and enter the process of divorce. While the two agree to handle the matter as cleanly and quickly as possible, the addition of unforeseen complications, intruding parties, and overwhelming emotions begin to turn an already difficult situation even worse.
What struck me most about this film is just how well balanced the story is told. Traditionally, or at least based on what I’ve seen, films focusing around a divorce tend to focus on one side of the argument. You’ll either focus on the mother or father in their point of view, portraying the opposing party as one-dimensional or evil. However, Marriage Story does not pick sides when it comes to showcasing the arguments of both parties. Instead, the story puts you right in the middle of the situation, portraying both parties as having valid, yet flawed arguments as to what happens to them. Because of this, you don’t feel like you’re being fed information from one side that could potentially be biased, allowing you to see both sides of the picture for a more complete, and realistic viewing experience.
The reality of the film is also elevated by fantastic performances from the talented cast. Now I say performances but watching this film you’d swear its real people arguing with each other on-screen. Every one of the cast members gives it their all, ensuring that this slice of life film feels exactly like it should. As if you were peering into a turbulent time in the lives of real people. Both Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver are simply mesmerizing in this film, giving powerful performances that are filled with genuine raw emotion. From an acting standpoint, these two performances are some of the best I’ve ever seen. The support they get is also very good. Laura Dern, Ray Liotta, and Alan Alda make excellent lawyers, showcasing the two-faced nature of them very well without trying too hard. The cast members that portray their friends and family are also excellent and add another layer of realism that most other casts cannot offer.
The movie surrounding the performers is also very well made from a technical perspective as well. It may not be groundbreaking in that regard, but the film still offers enough charm to accommodate the intimate subject matter. The most impressive aspect of the film is the script, which makes every scene feel so much more engaging through the dialogue alone. The pacing is also very good, utilizing individual scenes and moments to push the plot forward without ever feeling like the plot is being pushed by some objective or plot device. Much like real life, the film flows in differing patterns based on the moment. Some scenes are short and sweet while others are long and difficult to watch. Despite the different pace for different moments, the film never feels like it’s dragging or rushing. As for any issues, there are a few scenes in which there are one too many cuts in moments between Nicole and Charlie. Other than that, though, there isn’t much in the way of issues.
Where the film really succeeds, however, is showcasing the concept of divorce and how ultimately pointless and worthless it is. What starts off as two people just trying to separate from one another devolves into something that brings out the worst in people. Something that causes two people who once loved each other to squabble over the most pointless of things like furniture and money. Then there’s the idea of getting involved in court which, while it may help in some cases, is ultimately pointless and does nothing other than re-iterate what both parties know. Ultimately, it comes down to the two people who are splitting up that ultimately make the decisions, rendering all of the lawyers, courts and trials worthless in the end. It also does a wonderful job of showing that, no matter what, everything will be fine in the end. After all of the fighting, crying, and turmoil that they face, they will both come out stronger than ever before.
Marriage Story is a compelling, complex, and beautiful story of a relationship as it comes to a close. The film’s messages are so clear and concise when it comes to the subject matter, yet the film surrounding those messages is so well crafted that you get the point without being told outright. This is thanks to the well-balanced story, excellent screenplay, top-tier performances, and a compelling look at the idea of separation and the conflicts it brings about. This film is easily one of the best relationship dramas I’ve seen in some time and is deserving of the praise it receives.
8.5/10