There are quite a few films called *Splitsville*, but the 1999 comedy is the most notable. It takes a quirky approach by focusing on children, hinting that adults might overlook the comedic potential of divorce. Marketed as “the funniest film of the year,” it sits alongside ego-driven projects that make extreme responses to break-ups seem acceptable.
This *Splitsville* is penned by its male stars, Kyle Marvin and Michael Angelo Covino. They play Carey and Paul, who are both involved with women out of their league: Ashley (Adria Arjona) and Julie (Dakota Johnson). The story kicks off with Carey’s marriage to Ashley hitting a dead end, leading her to ask for a divorce. In a panicked move, Carey seeks advice from friends in what appears to be a happy open marriage. When he pitches the idea to Ashley as a solution, things spiral out of control.
The film doesn’t delve deeply into character development, leaving viewers struggling to care about any of them. Many jokes fall flat, relying on trivial situations—like the deaths of pet fish—that feel more uncomfortable than funny. In a time when fish care awareness is rising, making light of such issues seems misguided.
As Carey and Ashley explore their unconventional arrangement, conflicts arise about boundaries and jealousy, particularly from Carey. His feelings seem unfair given Ashley’s initial desire to leave. This raises questions about his character; his attitude towards money alone would be a red flag for many. When a couple lacks emotional depth, any tension about their relationship falls flat.
While the plot aims for humor through modern relationship challenges, it often misses the mark, leaving viewers disinterested. The film attempts a moral conclusion, but it feels tacked on, reminiscent of a children’s show wrapped in a feel-good message. Ultimately, this *Splitsville* struggles to impress, feeling more like a budget TV movie.
Interestingly, open relationships have sparked both intrigue and debate in today’s society. A 2022 survey by the Kinsey Institute found that about 4-5% of Americans report being in an open relationship, showing that this theme resonates with some viewers. Experts suggest that these arrangements can lead to deeper connections if approached with trust and communication—something *Splitsville* neglects to explore. The lack of nuanced discussions on this topic may leave audiences wanting more depth and sincerity.
In the realm of social media, the film seems to have drawn mixed reactions. While some viewers appreciate its unique take on relationships, others criticize its shallow portrayal of complex emotions. As #Splitsville trends, discussions about actor performances and narrative choices continue to flood platforms like Twitter and Instagram, highlighting how audiences engage with themes of love and loss in modern cinema.
This film may resonate as a lighthearted comedy for some, but it ultimately battles with depth and authenticity, making it a missed opportunity in exploring contemporary relationships.
