Review of My Ex-Ex (2015) by Eric H — 15 Jul 2015

My Ex-Ex is the new Canadian romantic comedy written by and starring André Bharti. Set in Toronto, My Ex-Ex is the story of Mary and her quest for the right man and right love. Unrequited love is a common theme in the Romcom genre, however, Bharti's script is able to approach the subject in a fairly new, pretty engaging way. The movie is both endearing and witty.

Canadian actress Katherine Barell plays the female lead, Mary. Barell's portrayal of the lovesick Mary centres the movie and allows the other characters the opportunity to showcase their quirky and larger than life personalities.

Mary begins the movie sure that the relationship she is in with Ted is heading for marriage. However, Ted, a cut-throat business type, has different plans and ends the relationship instead of proposing, which breaks Mary's heart. Ted then suggests meal options to a shocked Mary. Mary sinks into a deep depression, fueled by binge watching TV and eating cartons of ice cream. Friends Sandra and Becky try to lift Mary from her funk and suggest she see a psychic. A reluctant Mary agrees.

The three ladies visit Psychic Mona Lisa, played by Luba Goy. The psychic is sure she can reconnect Mary with her ex for 50 bucks. One problem, Mary doesn't specify which ex she wants back. Unaware of the blunder, Mary awaits for her reunion with Ted. However, a chance encounter with her college ex, Patrick, complicates Mary's plans.

We quickly learn that unrequited love isn't unique to Mary's situation with Ted, in an interesting dynamic, it is also indicative of Patrick's feelings for Mary. Patrick's friends remind Patrick that Mary once broke his heart and advise him to be weary of the woman who may be on the rebound. Patrick refuses to heed the warnings and dives face first into the pursuit of his old, new love.

Mary is ultimately left with decision of being with someone who is financially stable but may not love her as much as she loves him, or a man who adores her but has a lot of growing up to do.

My Ex-Ex is a clever re-telling of the age old love triangle, however the movie diverts from the redundant Romcom formula to add a refreshing take full of nuance and varied perspective.