Daniel Santiago

Infidelity is often romanticized by many, thinking of it as a vehicle for freedom and attaining an authentic passion that is often associated with 'true' love. The film transposes two stories - one loosely based on the source novel and the other, about an affair between two actors playing the characters of the source novel's film adaptation. Essentially, this film presents a story within a story. The characters which these actors portray live in a time where sexuality is repressed and therefore, the concept of love is akin to that of a precious commodity. Yet, despite this, people still end up falling out of love and ultimately, enticed to seek that which will fill the void that was once occupied by sensuality and romantic idealization. The actors, on the other hand, live in an era wherein sexual liberation is the norm in the culture. Their liberation pervades to the point where infidelity, despite looked down upon when exposed, is subconsciously accepted. They cheat on their respective partners as they discreetly maintain an affair behind the curtains. Although their attraction for each another is intense, one of the actors (Streep) refuse to completely commit with the other (Irons); the one who is unwilling to give in still feels obligated to the partner she's engaged with, whereas her accomplice in the affair is ready to leave behind the very family he has built. Essentially, this film is a critique on romantic relationships; how many devote themselves to one person, and then end up betraying them through unfaithfulness, whatever the underlying motivation may be. It begs us to ponder these questions: What good are romantic relationships when they have a likelihood of falling apart? What do we really desire from romance: love or lust? Why is the perception of love often easily muddled with lust? If you are interested with unique presentations of narrative in film, and the themes I've aforementioned, then this film is for you.

A tale about friendship, ambition and the thin line between luck and fate/destiny. Sean Connery is at his best here, and Michael Caine perfectly complements his performance. (It helps that they're great friends in real life). Supporting cast perform just as sublimely as the leading stars. If you haven't seen it, make it a priority to do so.