Olivia Wilde and Seth Rogen play a married couple, who are obviously not very happy. After that’s established, the couple from upstairs comes for dinner (Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton). The strained introductions only get more awkward when the subject of sex comes up. Wilde, who also directed, effectively embodies the uncomfortable situations in her performance, while Rogen pretty much plays his regular character (with his signature laugh temped down a bit). Cruz is seductive on every level, while Norton creates a mellow, seemingly balanced character. Together they confidently zip thru the dialogue, while comfortably navigating the changing sentiments. Wilde’s direction maintains the pace, although sometimes she placed people low in the frame, which proved weirdly inconsistent and unnecessary. While some will appreciate the dynamics of this foursome, it also feels strained and never reaches the emotional heights that seemed to be coming. This is an intelligent film for adults, which is rare in cinemas, but it lacks the punch to make it as compelling as hoped. 3.5 out of 5.0 stars
