Marital diss

Married Life makes an absurdity of matters of the heart | Meghan Keane

When the narrator of a film called Married Life describes the institution as a type of "mild disease" after the opening credits, it's hard to be optimistic about the events about to transpire.

From the title to the flippant demeanor of the film, Ira Sachs' Married Life (rated PG-13 for thematic elements and a scene of sexuality) seems intent on unveiling the silly underpinnings of modern relationships, but this comedic twist on a noir story lacks heart.

Harry Allen (Chris Cooper) has strayed from his wife Pat (Patricia Clarkson) and fallen for the younger and blonder Kay (Rachel MacAdams). As this is 1940s polite society, Harry can't bear the thought of hurting Pat. So to avoid the embarrassment of a divorce, he plots to kill her. But he makes the mistake of introducing his caddish friend Richard Langley (Pierce Brosnan) to his new love interest. Richard is soon plotting to steal Kay for himself. Meanwhile, devoted Pat is actually carrying on an affair with the Allens' mutual friend John (David Wenham). Married life!