Review of Between Us (2017) by Kevin P — 06 Mar 2018

Strengths: One of the things that usually makes a good indie flick is when they're grounded in something real. The relationship between Dianne (Olivia Thirlby) and Henry (Ben Feldman) felt very realistic. Both actors brought a lot of emotion to their roles, really making you feel for their situation and making it relatable. The dialogue, chemistry, and rapport between all the main cast members is great, which adds a fair amount to the overall enjoyment of the film. The paths their issues take them down is interesting. He ends up with a fan of his work, Veronica (Analeigh Tipton), and a potential orgy; while she falls into the arms of a married man (Adam Goldberg). When things come to a head near the end, you can feel some of that heartbreak.

Weaknesses: It's interesting that Dianne and Henry are concerned with their relationship becoming cliché or commonplace, because that in itself is commonplace. Since a lot of these romantic indie films are so similar, you have to do something special to standout. While the movie hits the right notes, they all feel too familiar and in line with other stuff that's already out there. Also, as good as the actors are, there seemed to be a lack of allowing them to be funny. For a romantic comedy, even a more serious one, there really aren't many laughs. That's a shame as a few more of those could've really evened things out.

Overall: While this is a good movie with true emotion about a realistic relationship, it all just feels too familiar. It doesn't do enough to distinguish itself among the crowded genre it resides in. A good way to spend an hour and a half, though you probably won't consider it a memorable night.