Maybe you stay married for the kids.|Jan. 27, 2023|USA|95 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Comedy;Romance
Description: “Maybe I Do” (2023) is a film that seems to follow a recent trend of subtly conservative themes in romantic movies. Last year’s “Look Both Ways,” starring Lili Reinhart, presented itself as a story about life choices but ended up promoting pro-life ideas. Similarly, “Maybe I Do,” directed by Michael Jacobs in his debut, appears to be a comedic exploration of midlife crises and marriage contemplation. However, beneath its surface, it delivers one of the most restrictive and anti-sex narratives on infidelity.
The story unfolds over two nights, with a concluding scene at the end. It retains its theatrical roots, introducing six main characters in pairs. Grace, played by Diane Keaton, spends the evening with Sam, portrayed by William H. Macy, after they meet at an art house movie. Meanwhile, their spouses, Howard (Richard Gere) and Monica (Susan Sarandon), are at a luxurious hotel, preparing to end their four-month affair. Their adult children, Allen (Luke Bracey) and Michelle (Emma Roberts), have been dating for years but haven’t introduced their parents. At a friend’s wedding, Michelle is the only bridesmaid eager to catch the bouquet, symbolizing her desire for a happy ending.
The film’s exaggerated coincidences fit its farcical tone, but the first half struggles with disjointed editing, jumping between the three couples without clear transitions or emotional development. Despite themes of infidelity and marriage, the relationships are portrayed as surprisingly chaste, lacking any sense of intimacy. Jacobs’ direction lacks visual flair, with awkward wide shots that create emotional distance between the characters and the audience.
Cast director: Michael Jacobs
Cast actor: Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon, Richard Gere, Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, William H. Macy, Michael Kostroff, James Monroe Iglehart
Original name: Maybe I Do