Private Life

An interesting portrait of a couple who tries everything to fulfill their dream and become parents but forgetting what their relationship is all about in the process. A very personal film that handles about a very personal topic, wonderfully put in scene and written by Tamara Jenkins who finally presents us a follow up project after "The Savages" and it is just as realistic and natural. To make a rather sad and to some extends tragic story a dramedy thanks to very well chosen comedic moments was the right decision. She found two great actors who both know how to do drama and comedy and the mix of that. Paul Giamatti absolutely shines and gives one of his best performances in ages. The quality of his performance goes back to his "Sideways" days. Kathryn Hahn once again proves her talent as one of the most underrated versatile actresses of her generation. Glad she got to show her acting powers in such a juicey role. John Caroll Lynch also gets to show that he not only can plays psychopaths and losers. Molly Shannon is wonderful in a supporting role and commands every scene she is in. Another great performance by another great and underrated actress.Kayli Carter is a great new discovery and she will go places. An intimate portrait of a marriage that is put to a test. Absolutely recommendable.

Once again, Kathryn Hahn delivers some stunning work. The entire film is very effective and very well scripted.

The entire cast turns in wonderful performances. The script is infused with droll humor, and the multiple instances of awkwardness come off as genuine, bolstered by sensitive pacing. The storyline feels a bit worn and redundant at times, but this might have been intentional, considering the subject matter. In contrast, many contemporary American films strive to include way too many plot points. The city scenes and interiors made me miss New York -- the production design was quite good. There are a few subtle surprises in the script which worked well. Highly recommended.

Great actors and very appropriate casting of Giamatti and Hahn. I've loved this hysterical Katherine Hahn character ever since the series I Love Dick. Such a treat to see them together, and so natural! There really wasn't one moment where I felt like I was outside of the film looking in. It really captured (how I imagine!) this scenario to be, particularly the unsexiness of trying to get pregnant over and over. I also enjoyed the rebellious commentary from their niece on their art driven lifestyle, reminded me of crap I would've said in my first years at uni, haha. The focus on fertility, pregnancy, IVF cycles et al. can be a lil heavy and will probably deter the male audience (meh) but it is a film that I'd rather watch alone or with friends - not a date movie! Probably unrelated but something something like this actually happens in the film too...

I found myself laughing at several moments. Very smooth and the characters were likeable. A difficult subject which was kept in perspective. The irony in the movie may be lost on some people and it did drag on longer than needed, but better than a lot of your 'franchised' drivel out there.