Back in 2002, Rosanna Arquette released a documentary entitled Searching for Debra Winger. It was a film that tackled the actress’s sudden departure from Hollywood after making her mark with hits such as Shadowlands, Terms of Endearment, and of course, An Officer and a Gentleman. It’s a fascinating piece, one that interviews other women to touch on the obstacles and pressures that come with being a female in a male dominated profession. Winger’s candor and intelligence endeared her even further to an audience that has missed her on the big screen over the years. Aside from a wonderful turn in Rachel Getting Married, The Lovers marks her first lead role in nearly two decades, and in addition to being a smart look at the latter stages of marriage and infidelity, it’s a potent reminder of her talents.
Michael (Tracy Letts) and Mary’s (Debra Winger) marriage is near its end. The passion is gone and they’re going through the motions; together, but very much apart. Each of them have embarked on extramarital affairs. One day, each on the verge of leaving the other, they rekindle their romance, beginning a passionate relationship anew and throwing all they had planned and perceived into disarray.
The premise sounds like a gimmick layered over a romantic comedy, but it’s a twist used in a far more commendable way. Effectively mined to craft insight into this pair in the dying stages of their relationship, The Lovers adds commentary on societal expectations as well as the general dynamics of relationships, old and new. What could easily veer into being twee wisely avoids any farcical milking of the scenario, instead embracing a deeper look at the emotions and conflicts initiated by the situation. Also admirable is the inclusion of a resolution that refuses to wrap things up neatly. It’s a tale that is sure to resonate with many, or even provoke a latent fear in most, illustrating how time can weaken what once was so strong. There’s an obvious bleakness here, stemming from a pessimism that comes with decades of marriage, but it’s one that comes with a sad tenderness. The tale is further tempered with hope, showing that an emotional bond that once was so strong still lingers, and indeed can reemerge under the right circumstances.
It’s a juicy role for Winger, one that shows off her nuance and how much she brings to the screen. She works well with Letts, and together they sell the conflict, the sadness, and the uncertainty of the pair well. Supporting cast is strong, notably Aiden Gillen as Mary’s angsty lover Robert (Aiden Gillen) and Melora Walters as Lucy, a fiery ballet dancer who has captured Michael’s attention and upended his life. Both are vivacious characters who mirror in many ways what this older couple were, and want to be again.
The film does verge on the predictable. It hits the points you’d expect, the themes and conflicts that would arise at this point in a relationship flowing a little too cleanly from one moment to another. Affairs are a messy business, and the film fails to capture some of that destructive randomness. The score is also a little intrusive and heavy handed. Despite these minor issues, the film is entertaining, moving, and applaudable in how it mines both older talent and relationships, making for a more mature comedy drama.
The Package
Visual quality on this release is strong. Detail is good, as are colors and contrast, depicting natural tones. Special features include:
- Audio Commentary with Writer and Director Azazel Jacobs
- “The Music of Romance” Scoring The Lovers” Featurette
- “A Complicated Passion: Making The Lovers” Featurette
The featurettes run around 15 and 20 minutes respectively. Both offer some nice insights into the making of the film, interviews with cast and crew, as well as some behind the scenes footage. A code for a digital copy of the film is also included.
The Bottom Line
The Lovers is a smart, incisive, deadpan comedy that lands plenty of emotional punches, anchored by two superb performances from Winger and Letts. A refreshing experience, not just for its authentic and empathetic portrayal of a more mature relationship but also its use of experienced talent.
The Lovers is available on Blu-ray and DVD from August 1st