Fall in love with ‘Marriage Story’

From director Noah Baumbach comes an in-depth introspection of what it means to love and be loved, “Marriage Story.” The film tells the story of Charlie Barber and his wife Nicole who are going through a friendly coast-to-coast divorce. While the two attempt to keep their separation simple at first, legal and social ordeals begin to take shape that will open their eyes to what they mean to one another.

Baumbach takes his subject and simply runs with it. “Marriage Story”‘s exploration of the meaning relationships carry within our lives is done in a unique and nuanced manner. With the film choosing to focus on a divorce, it would seem to be a hurdle to find a way to explore the affection these two share for one another. Thanks to the movie’s tone remaining so down-to-earth however, the film manages to present the loopholes within such a situation that arise from the sentiments of our protagonists, with plenty of time devoted to exploring both characters in great detail.

We understand why these two have no business remaining in a relationship with one another, but there is clearly still a beating heart between the two that makes it a hard fact for each to accept. The approach to both characters is also remarkably nuanced, with neither being depicted as truly malicious, but having human flaws regardless that we can identify with. Once the legal side of the divorce comes in, it becomes even more complicated as neither character knows entirely how to handle the situation which leads to the lawyers acting as middlemen and twisting the scenario. All of the amounting frustration and subtle nuance leads to numerous moments of emotional intensity and cathartic energy that will be hard to forget.

And much of the reason for this are due to what may possibly be the two best performances of the year by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. Seeing this dynamic duo at work here is mind-blowing. The level of passion thrown into their characters is unmatched this year and their complicated chemistry leads to some riveting moments. In particular, an extended argument scene between the two that shows these actors at the top of their game and could be one of the best scenes in any movie this year.

Baumbach’s abilities behind the camera show as well without ever being too flashy. The overall direction and pacing gives time for the emotional baggage of each scene to sink in. Much of the camera work and cinematography as a result opts to utilize various single takes for very intense scenes as a way to give the actors room to breathe when delivering their performances. The editing is similarly nuanced and effective, with the argument scene mentioned earlier being a prime example of its way of amping up tension. The musical score by Randy Newman plays as a subtle contrast, with a bouncy and playful nature that never becomes too over-the-top while still reflecting the feelings our characters still have for one another.

It’s hard to find a hair out of place with “Marriage Story.” The film succeeds on just about every level to deliver this emotionally shattering tale in the best way possible. For those seeking down-to-earth storytelling that will make you look at relationships in a whole new way, then get ready to fall in love with “Marriage Story.”