Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Meryl Streep | ... | Kay | |
Tommy Lee Jones | ... | Arnold | |
Steve Carell | ... | Doctor Feld | |
Jean Smart | ... | Eileen, Kay's Friend | |
Ben Rappaport | ... | Brad, Their Son | |
Marin Ireland | ... | Molly, Their Daughter | |
Patch Darragh | ... | Mark, Their Son-in-Law | |
Brett Rice | ... | Vince, Arnold's Friend | |
Becky Ann Baker | ... | Cora, The Waitress | |
Elisabeth Shue | ... | Karen, The Bartender | |
Charles Techman | ... | Charlie, The Docent | |
Danny Flaherty | ... | Danny, The Bookstore Clerk (as Daniel J. Flaherty) | |
Damian Young | ... | Mike, The Innkeeper | |
Mimi Rogers | ... | Carol, The Neighbor | |
Ann Harada | ... | Ann, The Happy Wife |
Kay and Arnold are a middle-aged couple whose marriage has declined until they are now sleeping in separate rooms and barely interact in any meaningful loving way. Finally, Kay has had enough and finds a book by Dr. Feld which inspires her to sign them up for the Doctor's intense week long marriage counseling session. Although Arnold sees nothing wrong with their 30 year long marriage, he reluctantly agrees to go on the expensive excursion. What follows is an insightful experience as Dr. Feld manages to help the couple understand how they have emotionally drifted apart and what they can do to reignite their passion. Even with the Doctor's advice, Kay and Arnold find that renewing their marriage's fire is a daunting challenge for them both. Written by Kenneth Chisholm (kchishol@rogers.com)
A slightly-over-middle-age couple finds themselves in more than a rut, post-post empty nest. What to do?
An overly-simplified plot outline for a lovely, sweet, funny, sad, quiet movie that allows the cast's acting talents to shine. A great script with spot-on character development. None of your over-dramatics here.
We all know about Meryl Streep & Tommy Lee Jones, but even they deliver some newness. But Steve Carell gives us a nuanced performance without the smallest hint of shtick. Notice Elisabeth Shue in a small part that delivers big. As well as Jean Smart & Mimi Rogers.
Don't miss this one.