Splitsville

You never really know what something's worth until you sink it.

Plot (No Spoilers): Splitsville is a bizarre and often chaotic comedy that examines the instability of marriage and the practical complications of modern relationship structures. The film begins with married couple Carey and Ashley, whose relationship abruptly ends right after they witness a traumatic experience on the highway. Seeking an escape from his sudden separation, Carey moves into the beach house of his best friend Paul and Paul's wife, Julie, who confess to Carey that they are in an open marriage.

​The film explores how the two couples influence each other, leading to highly unconventional and comedic situations. The characters engage in rivalries, physical altercations, and strange romantic negotiations. In the most hilarious moments Carey even goes so far as to casually befriend his estranged wife's new lovers and invites them to live in their house. Splitsville highlights the hidden insecurities, jealousy, and lack of honesty that can exist within both traditional and open relationships.

Review: It is so surprising to me that this film remained so much under the radar last year. And that despite featuring prominent leads like Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona... Because I was entirely unfamiliar with Splitsville, I watched it without any prior expectations. From the opening scene, the plot proves completely unpredictable, which consistently fuels the humor throughout the runtime. I have not laughed this much at a movie in a long time. The bizarre conversations that come up when the main character Carey attempts to befriend his wife's lovers or the son's character who is always causing trouble are just two of many reasons of why this is my favorite comedy in years. Splitsville witty, unexpected and never pretentious. Dakota Johnson delivers my favorite performance of hers to date, and Adria Arjona doesn’t take herself serious at all, which is so refreshing. The film suffers from an overextended ending and features some inconsistent character motivations in the final act. Yet, is one of the most entertaining and enjoyable movies I have seen so far this year. Please go watch it!

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Have a happy weekend and stay (Juli-)tuned