Review of Take This Waltz (2011) by Thomas W — 06 Jul 2013

Sarah Polley again impresses with a rather understated dramatic feature about love ... this time an uncertain love amongst the younger set (her last starred Julie Christie) as Take This Waltz is a love triangle about Margot (Michelle Williams - Blue Valentine) who is torn between two men she genuinely cares for.

One is her husband (Seth Rogen - Knocked Up), a professional chef whose odd depiction of love leaves Margot wanting/needing more and a new neighbor, Daniel (Luke Kirby - Shattered Glass), she meets by chance one time in a strange location and again on a random flight (fate?) after a work assignment.

The movie won't please everybody as I am sure many will be disappointed with Margot's roving eye when she has a husband who cares for her but doesn't know how to show it. I really liked parts of this and disliked a few other parts.

There is one spectacular scene set in on an amusement part scrambler set to Video Killed the Radio Star. Williams is radiant in this scene and it was one of the best scenes of 2012. There will be both lovers and haters of this film but the acting talent on display here is impressive as all three leads do a credible job.

Margot might have people dislike her personality; but the two male leads are neither un-likeable which makes the film so unsettling. These are both good guys. Sarah Silverman even has a small role playing against type as Rogen's recovering alcoholic sister -- and she is most(ly) believable.

Polley has a way with tender stories and with actors. She is one to watch ... namely behind the camera.