Review of Celeste & Jesse Forever (2012) by Ray H — 31 Aug 2012

This is a pretty good film. We have a divorcing couple. He is Jesse (Adam Samberg) a slacker designer/artist. His wife is Celeste (Rashida Jones)(who also co-wrote the story). She has an established career in a nebulous PR firm. His slacker status is apparently why she is divorcing him.

Jones is in almost every frame of the movie. She is a competent actress here. Samberg gives a believable performance as the rejected and dejected spouse. But, he isnt willing to grow up and be a more responsible person; even to keep his beloved wife.

Both characters date other people, but we dont see much of that. It isnt clear why their other relationships are, or are not, as good or as promising. There are some excellent moments. But, the film began to bog down after the first hour or so.

It did not seem like much was ultimately said or examined about romantic human relationships. The movie simply winds down toward the end. The ending was sort of flat. What was the purpose of this story??

I liked parts of it. But, the over-all experience was unsatisfying.