'Take This Waltz' and Shove It

Indie star Sarah Polley (Away From Her) makes her writing/directing return with the Canadian comedy-drama Take This Waltz. In the film, Michelle Williams (My Week With Marilyn) portrays yet another dysfunctional character, this time an anxious young wife who flirts with the idea of having an affair with her slightly stalker-ish neighbor. Yet her husband, played by Seth Rogen (in his most stripped down role to-date), is the perfect husband, not to mention the sanest character in the film. What starts out attaining a Lost In Translation feel, slowly descends its way into lost territory. We spend the movie trying to figure out what is wrong with Michelle Williams' character, then realize we are ultimately following an unlikeable protagonist who does not change. Comedian Sarah Silverman doesn't get enough screen time, and her presence is much needed to relieve from the constant awkwardness and painstakingly drawn-out tension between characters. The movie is charming the first half, but loses its charm and asks the audience to board a train to the end of its wreckage. Its repetitiveness and uneven tone makes it difficult to keep one's interest. With these talented actors and intriguing storyline, the film had such indie potential, but waltzed its way to oblivion. For a film that succeeds in achieving what Take This Waltz is attempting to, and for just a better time, check out 2009's Adventureland.