"Newlyweds" follows a newlywed pair Buzzy (Edward Burns) and Katie (Caitlin Fitzgerald) who are both on their second marriage and think they have found the key to a successful marriage: she works nights and he works days so they will enjoy their limited time together. It sounds like a good plan until they are tested by the host of crazy friends and family around them. First there's Katie's ex husband Dara (Dara Coleman) who constantly comes around asking for money. Then there's Buzzy's flakey half-sister Linda (Kerry Bishe) who unexpectedly shows up to stay with the couple while she pursues her ex-boyfriend Miles (Johnny Solo). Meanwhile Katie's sister Marsha (Masha Dietlein) and her husband of eighteen years Max (Max Baker) are quickly unraveling as a couple.
I really liked this film because it's a smart, simple movie that asks what makes a successful marriage. I thought the acting was great especially Bishe and I loved the direction (Edward Burns wrote, directed, & starred). The actors do "confessional" interviews in character that explain background and motivation throughout the story. It gives the film almost a documentary feel. I've heard that this film was shot in Tribecca over 12 days with a budget of just $9,000 and I have to say that it's a fabulous product for that small investment. Apparently the actors wore their own clothes and did their own hair and makeup too. I think this is a good example of just plain old good storytelling and acting without all the frills, bells, and whistles.
Note: This film is not rated but I'd say be cautious of the language and sexual references if thinking of letting a teen watch this.
Great film and I recommend it - A-
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