Are you ready for a true comedy comeback? “Splitsville” is making waves as the must-see screwball romp bringing genuine laughs back to theaters! With Dakota Johnson shining in a riotous role and a “fish slap” scene you won’t believe, this film proves funny movies still exist. Is pure, unadulterated hilarity what cinema needs?
‘Splitsville’ arrives as a much-needed jolt to the cinematic landscape, championing the forgotten art of pure, unadulterated comedy. For years, the big screen has been devoid of truly laugh-out-loud experiences, replaced by heavy dramedies or dramas with fleeting humorous moments. This new movie release, however, boldly reclaims the genre’s legacy, promising audiences a return to genuine entertainment.
Directed by Michael Angelo Covino, ‘Splitsville’ plunges into the tumultuous world of relationships, kicking off with Ashley (Adria Arjona) announcing her infidelity and desire for divorce to her husband, Carey. This dramatic revelation sets the stage for a chaotic journey, leading the estranged couple to seek solace and advice from their friends, Paul (also played by Covino) and Julie (Dakota Johnson), at a luxurious beach house.
The plot thickens with the introduction of Paul and Julie’s unorthodox open marriage, presented as their secret to marital longevity. However, the delicate balance shatters when Carey and Julie unexpectedly share an intimate moment, triggering a furious and hilariously choreographed “fish slap” fight scene that stands out as one of the most memorable comedic sequences in recent memory, solidifying its status as a must-see comedy film review.
Dakota Johnson delivers a standout performance as Julie, finally given a role that allows her to fully unleash her considerable comedic chops. Her portrayal of an attentive mother with underlying sexual prowess, resentful of her husband’s claimed “work” trips, is both nuanced and uproarious, proving her versatility beyond previous dramatic roles and making this a definitive Dakota Johnson film.
The film’s brilliance extends to its sharp, punchy screenplay penned by Covino and Kyle Marvin, which adeptly navigates complex themes of modern relationships, infidelity, and the pursuit of happiness. Their writing ensures that every character, particularly Johnson and Arjona, maximizes their comedic potential, resulting in a vibrant and dynamic ensemble.
Covino’s artistic vision, reminiscent of his previous work in “The Climb,” imbues ‘Splitsville’ with a distinctive retro vibe, further enhanced by its decision to shoot on film. Cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra’s masterful tracking shots and the standout score by David Wingo and Dabney Morris collectively elevate the film beyond a typical laugh-fest, making it a visually and auditorily rich experience.
In an era starved of quality screwball comedy, ‘Splitsville’ emerges as a triumphant and purely fun romp. It not only keeps the laughs coming but also firmly establishes Covino and Marvin as formidable rising talents in both filmmaking and performance, signalling a hopeful future for the genre and making this Splitsville movie review essential reading for comedy fans.
