Greetings again from the darkness. There is very little doubt that some of the most screwed up people are psychiatrists and psychologists. Since so many in Hollywood experience this first hand, there is quite a record of films that make this point. Writer and Director Ben Younger ("Boiler Room") takes a slightly different approach with his wonderful premise of older client dating the therapist's younger son and the pain and suffering (and humor) that comes with this knowledge. Throw in a little religious guilt, unsupported artistic ability and a recent divorce and the roller coaster ride begins! The terrific cast includes relative newcomer Bryan Greenberg who pulls off the young, sensitive artist-in-love with an older woman pretty well; Uma Thurman (sans Samurai sword); and living legend Meryl Streep as the mother / therapist. The interaction between Uma and Greenberg provide some great moments, but by far the best scenes occur during sessions between Uma and Meryl. They have a real chemistry and are both incredibly talented so it makes for real viewing pleasure.
The weakness in the film comes from the attempts at sophomoric humor including Jon Abrahams ("Boston Public"). These scenes are to reinforce the fact that Greenberg's character is only 23 and he is prone to dumb friends and immature moments. These moments are much better captured in Greenberg's scenes with Uma and Meryl. Also, there was a real let down with the writing during the scenes where Uma finally goes to dinner with Greenberg's family. This should have been the highlight of the movie both from poignancy and humor. Instead it fell flat.
Still, any film showing Uma and Meryl in prime form deserves a viewing. Toss in an up-and-coming hunk and some tremendous shots of New York City and there is something for everyone.
The weakness in the film comes from the attempts at sophomoric humor including Jon Abrahams ("Boston Public"). These scenes are to reinforce the fact that Greenberg's character is only 23 and he is prone to dumb friends and immature moments. These moments are much better captured in Greenberg's scenes with Uma and Meryl. Also, there was a real let down with the writing during the scenes where Uma finally goes to dinner with Greenberg's family. This should have been the highlight of the movie both from poignancy and humor. Instead it fell flat.
Still, any film showing Uma and Meryl in prime form deserves a viewing. Toss in an up-and-coming hunk and some tremendous shots of New York City and there is something for everyone.