Marriage Story Review - A Beautifully Acted & Wonderfully Directed Piece That's 2019s Greate

There are certain pieces that have the ability to make you cry, laugh, angry or even all at the same time. Rarely, there are pieces that have the ability to make you feel all these things and have you shocked in awe as well. One of those films that has done that for me in recent years is Noah Baumbach's "Marriage Story".

"Marriage Story" tells the story of a deeply in love couple(played by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson) that are in the process of getting a divorce. The film details the hardships and struggles that come with dealing with the process and how ultimately someone may deal with feelings from their own side of the story.

I had the chance to see this film a month ago back at the San Diego International Film Festival as well as a bunch of other projects which I'll try to write up reviews for soon. However, if I were to say what my favorite of the festival was, "Marriage Story" would be that one.

This film, in one word, was raw. What it achieves perfectly is the depiction of the real emotions that one deals with in the process of divorce; particularly when handling it under legal means rather than personal ones. Each side is given the proper amount of time for the audience to understand where they are coming from and ultimately why the two are not ideal for each other anymore even though they still deeply care for one another.

And the way that this aspect is showcased is through the beautiful performances from Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. Both play in heavily emotional states that are heartbreaking to watch; particularly when these two come face to face, which lead to, in my opinion, the best acted scene of the year with these two arguing with each other. But what's also amazing about these performances is that these aren't being played for dramatic effect. These are being played as real people in a real circumstance.

Laura Dern also comes to play as a lawyer for the wife and she doesn't hold back. Dern's character will make you feel angry and upset not in way that gets in the way of performance but elevates it in every way you can think of.

The other shining element of this film is its score. Randy Newman's calming and soothing notes helps in setting the tone for these characters and the world they inhabit or once did inhabit.

The last and most important aspect to this project that brings it all together is Noah Baumbach. His direction was excellent in setting up his depiction of the given situation inside the real world. He provides loads of moments of long shots on characters to allow the performer to showcase themselves in much time as possible without affecting the pace. His writing is also as grand as his direction as he gives the couple equal share in providing their time to showcase their stance and their feelings about the divorce taken place and how they got there in the first place. Baumbach never sides with anyone as both are flawed in their own way.

"Marriage Story" is a wonderful piece of work that delivers in all the right ways. I never found myself bored or critical in any areas. From its remarkable performances to its stellar direction and its immersive soundtrack, this is, without a doubt, the best that 2019 has to offer.

"Marriage Story" hits Netflix on December 6th.

"Marriage Story" Grade: A+