Everything I tried did not eradicate the image searing in my brain of Meryl Streep in a compromising position. I am not a prude; but, I do not want to see the woman who portrayed Margaret Thatcher and Julia Child doing such a thing–it was just wrong! In this comedic drama, Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady, It’s Complicated) played Kay, a wife of 31 years to her husband Arnold, played by Tommy Lee Jones (The Fugitive, No Country for Old Men). Empty nesters who lost their intimacy, Kay and Arnold were drifting apart, acting more like roommates than a married couple. Burdened with sadness, a lonely Kay was determined to try and save the marriage by enrolling in Dr. Feld’s, played by Steve Carell (Dinner for Schmucks, Get Smart), intensive couples counseling program; with or without Arnold. This was a different type of role for Meryl, playing a more muted character than her recent characters. I thought Tommy Lee was quite good as a cantankerous curmudgeon, quite surprised to see him bring such vulnerability to the role. What sold this film was the stars’ acting, they were quite believable. Even though Steve Carell played totally straight in his role, I was continually waiting for him to do something humorous. The weaknesses in the movie came from the script and directing. Everything seemed to be stuck in a middle range of feelings, no dramatic highs or lows to make me care more about the characters. A stronger ending was needed; not the sudden way things ended without explanation. Based on the audience seated at the theater, it appears the film attracts an older crowd. I just wonder how they felt about some of the ways Meryl tried to improve her marriage.

2 1/2 stars