Par amour pour elle

"When a man loves a woman" is a truly terrific film that allows the audience to interact with the emotional struggles of all of the characters particularly Alice, Michael and the children. Every emotion is conveyed with such effectiveness and a realistic portrayal of the struggles of a family torn apart by addiction is allowed to be told without sensationalism. It is not, as some suggest, information based without any entertainment value. Rather this film confronts the audience with the fact that love is not perfect, that love is a all in all whirlwind of emotions that are unpredictable and complex.

It was a surprising performance by Ryan who usually fulfils the predictable role in a romantic comedy. Garcia, as usual was brilliant, his characters demand a presence on the screen and he does not disappoint.

The helplessness of both Alice and Michael is played out well. Further the portrayal of Alice having an addictive personality that is fueled by alcohol is also convincing. This idea emerges in the scene of the eggs being thrown over the car, which is often criticised by others in these comments. This scene did have a role to play and aligned with others that suggested that Alice thought that she was only loved when she was doing something fun and crazy. Being boring was something very much feared by Alice.

This film is a psychological drama with the essential element of romance to assure the complete attention of its audience. Great film, Great cast.