I enjoyed how this movie was approached, presenting the two stories as a split narrative. Mr. Allen also shows his creativeness through how his characters endure many similar situations in each narrative. However, other than some Will Ferrell antics I did not find this film very entertaining. This dims a strong performance by Radha Mitchell.

Mitchell’s portrayal of a broken down, tense woman in the tragic narrative convinces me that she could be a big hit in the future. Overall, though, I don’t recommend this film. There was so much cigarette smoking by Melinda in this film that I felt like I needed some Nicorette gum. I cannot think of a single scene where she does not have a cancer stick plugged between her lips. There are also many scenes where alcohol is consumed, particularly by Melinda. Extramarital affairs weave themselves into the storyline as a spouse in both narratives desires and begins a relationship with another person. This film does not resemble anything close to family entertainment.