Review of Millers in Marriage (2025) - Film Analysis

      **Millers in Marriage, 2025**

      **Written and Directed by Edward Burns**

      **Starring**: Gretchen Mol, Julianna Margulies, Minnie Driver, Edward Burns, Morena Baccarin, Benjamin Bratt, Patrick Wilson, Campbell Scott, Brian d’Arcy James, Elizabeth Masucci, Leslie Kritzer, Paco Lozano, Tricia Alexandro.

      **SYNOPSIS:**

      This story revolves around three middle-aged married couples grappling with common dilemmas related to marriage and fidelity, professional achievements and setbacks, and the struggle to find a new phase in life. Instead of concentrating on a single marriage, Edward Burns’ latest film (in which he also plays a significant role) examines three Millers experiencing various forms of dysfunctional relationships. One might expect these families, who are either recent empty-nesters or still navigating parental responsibilities, to interact and share valuable insights, yet this element is surprisingly limited (with just one family dinner scene and another sibling meeting near the end). This choice is intentionally thought-provoking; one husband is in a troubled marriage yet remains oblivious, unable to understand his sibling's disapproval of a much worse partner, leading to minimal communication. This choice provides an anthology film-like feel, despite not technically qualifying as such, and also reveals its own shortcomings, as some character dynamics are more captivating than others.

      Additionally, themes of unfulfilled dreams, lost potential, jealousy, and change weave throughout the narrative, hinting at new beginnings. One relationship appears healthier than the others but seems to have lost its initial spark. In contrast, another is marked by volatility and alcoholic narcissism (a new role for the normally reliable horror figure Patrick Wilson). There's also a love triangle that presents issues of insecurity, manipulation, lust, indecision, and commitment challenges.

      The film features a scene where Scott (Patrick Wilson), a touring rock artist, condescendingly yells at his wife, Eve (Gretchen Mol), for believing that a music critic (portrayed by Benjamin Bratt) who once had a crush on her four decades ago is genuinely interested in her story about their band’s past potential. He claims the critic's intentions are solely to exploit her for personal gain, leading to the most intense marital conflict in the film. However, the film generally opts for a more subdued portrayal of tumultuous relationships rather than loud arguments.

      Renée (Minnie Driver) harbors feelings for Andy Miller (Edward Burns), who is recently separated but still legally married. They both indicate a desire to be together. Complicating matters is the outgoing, seductive Tina (Morena Baccarin), who tells Andy she regrets ending their relationship. Their first interaction reveals Tina's willingness to use dubious tactics to achieve her goals, raising the question of what Andy truly desires and whether he would be suitable for Renée, who struggles with trust due to a past troubled marriage.

      Maggie (Julianna Margulies), a successful author, has garnered more recognition than her husband Nick (Campbell Scott), whose promising debut novel was followed by a disappointing second work that left him feeling defeated and jealous of Maggie's success. His disinterest in her achievements leads to his reclusiveness, as he reluctantly attends a dinner to meet Renée, Andy's new girlfriend. Their marriage is devoid of love, contrasting with Maggie's budding relationship with the supportive Dennis (Brian d’Arcy James), which evolves into a romantic and illicit affair.

      As noted, **Millers in Marriage** unfolds slowly, lacking explosive confrontations but featuring several smaller tensions that effectively reshape our views of these characters. Edward Burns succeeds in making them feel like relatable individuals, despite the film primarily addressing the problems of affluent white characters. Some editing choices, such as non-linear storytelling and the inclusion of flashbacks, do not significantly enhance the narrative and may be seen as misguided stylistic attempts. Nevertheless, the ensemble cast successfully portrays the complexities and humanity of these characters.

      **Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★**

      Robert Kojder is a member of the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society. He also serves as the Flickering Myth Reviews Editor. Check here for new reviews and follow him on BlueSky or Letterboxd.