Review of Husbands and Wives (1992) by Marcus W — 07 Jul 2013
A classic example of when an artist's personal life causes audiences to wince in recognition at what is being depicted onscreen so that it undermines the material. In spite of these reservations, this marital comedy-drama ensemble by Woody Allen is one of his most perceptive and emotionally raw movies.
When a Manhattan married couple (Judy Davis and Sydney Pollack) announces to their friends, another married couple (Woody Allen and Mia Farrow), they are separating, the revelation causes the latter couple to examine the frailty in their own relationship.
As individuals become involved in various dalliances, Allen explores how some relationships are mended and others dissolve unexpectedly. As the distraught, captious Sally, Judy Davis has an intrinsic vitality that leaves you flabbergasted.
Davis and Pollack are the standouts in the cast. What doesn't work is Allen's cinema verite-style documentary approach featuring hand-held cameras, jump cuts, and direct to camera interviews with an off screen narrator.
Trying to capture a John Cassavetes-like authenticity, the effect is self-consciously jarring. With Juliette Lewis, Liam Neeson, Lysette Anthony, Blythe Danner, Ron Rifkin.
This review of Husbands and Wives (1992) was written by Marcus W on 07 Jul 2013.
Husbands and Wives has generally received very positive reviews.
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