Married to It

Married to It is a 1991 film directed by Arthur Hiller, featuring Beau Bridges, Stockard Channing, and Robert Sean Leonard. This movie proves a humorous yet honest exploration into the trials and triumphs of marriage, viewed through the prism of three different couples at varying stages of their relationships. It beautifully captures the complexities, annoyances, and sometimes, the absurdity that underpins long-term commitments.

Set in the cosmopolitan hub of New York City during the late 80s, "Married to It" provides the audience with a slice of life where each couple's story is distinct yet interconnected, promoting the concept that no marriage is an island.

Beau Bridges gives a stellar performance as John Morden, a Wall Street financier with a heart of gold. His wife, Iris Morden, played with perfect nuance by Stockard Channing, is a former dancer turned dedicated school counselor. The couple's relationship, characterized by deep affection and shared purpose, has reached a comfortable stage and presents as a realistic and mature reflection of long-term commitment.

Our second couple, Claire and Leo Rothenberg, is portrayed by Cybill Shepherd and Ron Silver. This pair are in the early stages of marital bliss, and their chemistry on-screen is palpitable. Claire is a fashion entrepreneur with a carefree spirit, while Leo is a straight-laced, albeit slightly immature, attorney. Together they navigate challenges and insecurities, the comedy that results from their opposing personalities providing a light-hearted break from the film's weightier themes.

The youngest couple, Nina Bishop and Chuck Bishop, are played by Mary Stuart Masterson and Robert Sean Leonard. These newlyweds are just beginning to carve out their definition of 'married life'. With their youthful enthusiasm and innocent love, they take on the journey of balancing career aspirations, personal growth, and the responsibilities that come with marriage.

One of the movie's main driving forces is the friendship that blossoms among these three couples. As they navigate through their personal challenges, they grow to rely on each other, forming a bond that adds another layer of connection in the film. Not only does this unique bond offer emotional support for each couple, but it also brings about laughs, tears, and transformations for these endearing characters and the audience alike.

Notable themes include the struggle to maintain individual identities within a marriage, the challenge of redefining relationship expectations and roles as circumstances change, and the role of friendship and community in weathering the storms of life. The narrative manages to tackle these topics with humor, warmth, sincerity, and tenderness, making for a highly engaging and emotionally resonant film.

The production design of the film effectively transports viewers back to the late 1980s, presenting New York City's charm with a nostalgic touch. The costume design and soundtrack also cement the time and place, further enhancing the authenticity of the setting and the characters.

"Married to It" is a well-executed comedic drama that offers valuable life lessons and truths about love, commitment, friendship, and personal growth. Although it deals with complex human emotions and relationships, it does so with a light touch, always maintaining its comedic undercurrent.

This film treats the notion of marriage with a fine, even touch of reality and humor, pulling audiences in with the relatability and quirks of each character. The spark between the characters, combined with compelling writing and accomplished performances by the cast, brings the movie to life.

Overall, "Married to It" is a refreshing breath of authentic storytelling mixed with humor, a film that not only takes you on a cinematic journey but also gently prods viewers to reflect on their lives and relationships. While the film’s title may hint that it is exclusively for couples, it casts a wider net, offering insights that can be appreciated by anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of human relationships and the concept of love and marriage itself. Its comedic moments, relatable characters, and heartfelt narrative make it a movie to remember.