“The Oranges” (2011) Movie Review: A Darkly Comic Tale of Suburban Life
Introduction
“The Oranges,” directed by Julian Farino, is a 2011 dark comedy-drama that delves into the complexities of suburban relationships and the unexpected twists life can bring. Starring Hugh Laurie, Catherine Keener, Leighton Meester, and Oliver Platt, the film explores the dynamics of two neighboring families whose lives are upended by an unexpected romance. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, and thematic elements, and provide information on where you can stream or rent “The Oranges” in the United States.
Plot Summary
Set in the suburban enclave of West Orange, New Jersey, “The Oranges” follows the lives of the Walling and Ostroff families, who are not just neighbors but also close friends. The Wallings, David (Hugh Laurie) and Paige (Catherine Keener), appear to have a stable, if not entirely passionate, marriage. Across the street, Terry (Oliver Platt) and Carol Ostroff (Allison Janney) are facing their own marital and familial challenges.
The status quo is disrupted when Nina Ostroff (Leighton Meester), the Ostroffs’ rebellious daughter, returns home for Thanksgiving after a failed engagement. Instead of rekindling a romance with Toby Walling (Adam Brody), the Wallings’ son, Nina finds herself drawn to David, sparking an affair that shocks both families and forces them to confront their own desires and shortcomings.
Performance and Direction
Hugh Laurie delivers a nuanced performance as David Walling, capturing the character’s internal conflict and longing for a change. Catherine Keener, as his wife Paige, portrays a woman grappling with betrayal and self-discovery, adding depth to the film’s emotional landscape.
Leighton Meester shines as Nina Ostroff, bringing a mix of vulnerability and defiance to her role. Her chemistry with Laurie is palpable, making their unconventional relationship both intriguing and believable. Oliver Platt and Allison Janney provide strong support as Terry and Carol Ostroff, respectively, injecting humor and heart into their portrayals of a couple dealing with their own issues.
Director Julian Farino balances the film’s comedic and dramatic elements, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The suburban setting serves as a backdrop for the characters’ personal crises, emphasizing the contrast between their outward appearances and inner turmoil.
Themes and Analysis
“The Oranges” explores themes of infidelity, midlife crises, and the search for happiness in unexpected places. The film examines how people cope with dissatisfaction and the ways in which they seek fulfillment outside conventional boundaries. The affair between David and Nina challenges societal norms and forces both families to reevaluate their relationships and priorities.
The film also addresses the concept of second chances and the possibility of new beginnings, even in the midst of chaos. It highlights the importance of honesty and communication in maintaining healthy relationships, while also acknowledging the messy, imperfect nature of human connections.
Where to Watch “The Oranges”
For those interested in watching “The Oranges,” the film is available for streaming on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“The Oranges” is a darkly comic exploration of suburban life and the unexpected turns relationships can take. With strong performances from its ensemble cast and a thoughtful blend of humor and drama, the film offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes. Whether you’re drawn to its complex characters or its insightful take on modern relationships, “The Oranges” is a film worth watching.
