Better Living Through Chemistry

Better Living Through Chemistry is a darkly comedic and somewhat dramatic film from 2014, helmed by the directorial duo Geoff Moore and David Posamentier. With a running time of 91 minutes, this engaging narrative successfully mixes sarcastic humor with elements of drama, thriller, and romance. The film features a well-recognized cast led by Sam Rockwell and Olivia Wilde, with Michelle Monaghan, Jane Fonda, and Ray Liotta supplying impressive supporting performances.

The film focusses on the humdrum life of Doug Varney, played with ease by Sam Rockwell, an affable and submissive small-town pharmacist. Doug inherited the pharmacy from his domineering father-in-law and constantly finds himself at odds with the expectations and judgements of his fitness-obsessed wife Kara, played by Michelle Monaghan. His life is monotonous, taken up by running the pharmacy and his strained relationship with his rebellious son.

However, things take a drastic shift when Doug's path crosses with the seductive, enigmatic, and unhappily married trophy wife, Elizabeth Roberts, played by Olivia Wilde. Together, they embark on a drug-and-alcohol-infused affair that turns Doug’s mundane existence upside down. Their reckless behavior stands in stark contrast to Doug's formerly monotonous life, opening up gateways to possibilities he could never have imagined for himself.

Elizabeth introduces Doug to a world where he is no longer a mere observer. She enables him to sample some less than legal substances, introducing him to a life of reckless abandon and excitement. As Doug ventures further into this dangerous lifestyle, he begins serving his customers with unorthodox mixtures of life-altering cocktails that make his pharmacy the number one spot in town. His transformation is evident to those around him, especially his wife and peculiar delivery boy, Dave, portrayed by Ben Schwartz.

The film further enriches its narrative by adding elements of thriller and suspense. Doug's newfound lifestyle has grave implications, inevitably leading him down a path filled with precarious situations, a blackmail scheme, and an unlikely partnership in criminal activity all while attempting to balance his professional responsibilities. As these thrilling circumstances escalate, Better Living Through Chemistry cleverly keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Jane Fonda plays herself as the ever-eloquent narrator of the film, her disarmingly smooth voice guiding viewers through Doug’s transformation, creating a unique blend of comedy and drama. Special mention should also be given to Ray Liotta, who also stars in the film as Elizabeth’s rich but largely absent husband, whose presence serves as a constant reminder of the dangers Doug and Elizabeth's actions could entail.

The cinematography of the film, considering its small-town setting, is colorful, and the film's occasional reliance on a moderate palette effectively represents Doug's more dangerous escapades. The soundtrack established the film's mood well, fittingly complementing the thematic shifts between comedy, romance, and suspense.

Better Living Through Chemistry excels in showcasing a gradual character progression throughout its narrative. Doug starts as a mild-mannered, overlooked pharmacist who slowly transforms into a proactive, courageous, albeit reckless individual who dares to rebel against societal expectations.

The chemistry between Rockwell and Wilde is palpable, as both actors deliver compelling performances that draw viewers into their complex, illicit affair. Rockwell successfully brings Doug's evolution to life, while Wilde convincingly portrays the allure and mystery that is Elizabeth, embodying a character who is much more than just a bored trophy wife. Monaghan also provides a solid performance, showing Kara's gradual realization of her husband's radical transformation.

Despite its seemingly light comedic surface, Better Living Through Chemistry accentuates the importance of breaking away from life's stagnancy, taking risks, and venturing into the unknown. It highlights the stifling impact of societal norms and expectations and explores the human necessity for change and pursuit of happiness.

In Better Living Through Chemistry, comedy and drama intertwine seamlessly, providing a compelling narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The film, with its complex characters and intriguing plot, guarantees an entertaining and engrossing cinematic experience.