Here’s a film that didn’t nearly get enough attention at Cannes but will be worth seeking out when it gets released later this summer. It’s both a tender and riotously funny treat.
Michael Angelo Covino’s “Splitsville,” which played out of competition, earned some well-deserved positive ink from critics, including Deadline, THR, and IndieWire. Neon has now released the trailer for the film, which will be released on August 22.
The film tells the story of Carey (Kyle Marvin), whose life unravels after his wife Ashley (Adria Arjona) asks for a divorce. Seeking support from friends Julie (Dakota Johnson) and Paul (Covino), he's surprised to learn their secret to happiness is an open marriage—until he crosses a line that throws all their relationships into turmoil.
“Splitsville” sneaks up on you. What begins as a quiet unraveling of a marriage evolves into something far more nuanced, funny, and tender. It’s only his second feature, following “The Climb,” but it’s clear that Covino hasn’t just grown more confident—he’s grown more curious.
“Splitsville” is, above all, a film that looks like a film. Shot entirely on 35mm, its textured visuals lend the story a richness that digital often lacks. Covino favors plenty of long takes, patient blocking, and a camera that moves with the rhythm of its characters.
Like “The Climb,” this film is as much about friendship as it is about romance. The chemistry between Marvin and Covino is as effortless as ever, grounded in years of collaboration. Arjona, coming off “Hit Man,” brings a quiet complexity to Ashley, never letting the character become a symbol or a villain.
I doubt there will be a better comedy released this summer. Seek this one out in August.
Paul Greengrass’ "The Uprising," starring Andrew Garfield, opened to $3.2M from 2,068 theaters this weekend. Yikes. The budget hasn’t been disclosed, but is said to be in the $20-$30M range.