Breakable You

Breakable You is a 2017 American comedy-drama film, set against the backdrop of the bustling New York City, directed by Andrew Wagner, scripted by himself and Fred Parnes. This film boasts an ensemble cast, including distinguished Oscar-winning actress Holly Hunter, Tony Award-winning actor Tony Shalhoub, gifted actor Alfred Molina, and an impressive newcomer, Cristin Milioti. The movie is an adaptation of Brian Morton's 2006 novel of the same name.

At its core, Breakable You is an intriguing exploration of the intricate human dynamics and emotional frailties, with its narrative deeply rooted in relationships, love, loss, betrayal, and the quest for self-discovery. Creamed with a delightful mix of emotive depth, sharp wit, and insightful social commentary, the plot invites the audience into the lives of its central characters, dealing with the notion of people not being as robust as they appear.

In the movie, Holly Hunter plays the role of Maud Weller, an exuberant, intense, and slightly eccentric therapeutic counselor who's trying to bear the weight of her personal life. She is fighting to juggle between her failing marriage, her strained relationship with her daughter, and a desperate strive to find a deserving place in her professional arena. Holly Hunter splendidly portrays the character's psyche, allowing the audience to see and feel the conflicting dimensions of Maud's existence.

Renowned stage actor Tony Shalhoub plays Maud's estranged husband, Adam Weller, an ambitious albeit jaded literature professor nurturing a burgeoning career as a playwright. His life intensifies when he stumbles upon an unfinished manuscript that seems to carry huge potential. Shalhoub's impressive performance weaves a portrayal of a man, lost in his insecurities and battling the moral conundrums caused by his 'accidental' discovery.

Alfred Molina plays the role of Samir, a wildly successful playwright but a secretly vulnerable man, traversing a journey of self-discovery. He embarks on an introspective ride, wrestling with his pessimistic perception of his life and incessantly striving for self-validation. Molina's ability to approach a complicated character and inject him with sensitivity is incredibly riveting and paves the heart of the plot.

Cristin Milioti plays Eleanor Weller, the daughter of Maud and Adam, who is enveloped in her emotional turmoil. With strained ties to her parents, a collapsed relationship, and a quest for love, Eleanor's character morphs into a symbol of modern loneliness and emotional discovery, adding a new layer to the story.

The interplay among these characters through the different subplots unveils a tale of how people's lives intersect, how they influence each other, and how fragility and strength exist abreast in every individual. Wagner's apt direction and beautiful storytelling rendered depth and authenticity to each character, unraveling their flaws and victories in the most humane way.

One of the key elements of Breakable You lies in the impressions its characters leave on the audience. It is an exploration of their vulnerabilities that inevitably stirs emotions. While the story is centered around the character's mistakes, failed relationships, professional struggles, and personal battles, it also encapsulates their determined stride towards redemption and happiness.

The film is based upon witty dialogues, meticulously drawn out characters, and dramatic turns underpinned with strong hints of humor and irreverence. To top it all, the sardonic charm of the narrative tone leaves an indelible mark.

The cinematic setting of bustling New York City serves as the perfect backdrop adding dynamism and realism to this intense narrative. Based on a largely theatrical drama, infused with sharp literary references, the essence of Breakable You lies in its thematic motif of human frailty wrapped in resilience.

In conclusion, Breakable You is the kind of film that intrigues, surprises, captivates, and gives the audience a potent perspective on life, relationships, and the human struggles that shape them. Its strong cast, an intelligent script, interesting characters, and emotionally-driven narrative contribute to a cinematic experience that explores the liminal spaces of human emotions and vulnerabilities. Whether it's the study of love, loss, ethics, or identity, Breakable You is surely a movie that will stay with you, making you ponder long after it ends.