Navigating life after divorce can be awkward, confusing, and difficult for those newly adjusting to singlehood. Despite the challenges inherent in such transitions, it seems reasonable to expect that most generally well-balanced adults should manage to adapt, experiencing embarrassing moments and social missteps along the way. Unfortunately, this is precisely the issue that undermines Amy Landecker’s first feature film, a romantic comedy that feels underdeveloped and tonally uneven, becoming as frustrating for viewers as it is for its central character. Following her divorce from her husband (Paul Adelstein), Lauren (Landecker) anticipates a fresh start, despite having been independent previously. However, once in this situation, she finds herself constantly unsure of how to act and respond, particularly when re-entering the dating world, maintaining a close bond with her young daughter (Chloe Cleary), and pursuing new opportunities for growth, like an acting class she recently joined. She essentially becomes clumsy and awkward, a trait seemingly absent during her marriage but now defining her experience as a divorcee. It’s difficult to accept that she would suddenly and naively encounter a series of ridiculous situations—some familiar, others absurd, and most attempting too much humor without succeeding—all woven together in a rambling, episodic storyline. These events eventually lead to Lauren attending a same-sex destination wedding with one of her acting classmates, Sean (Nico Hiraga), a handsome young man who has mixed feelings toward her. As anticipated, the reception proves disastrous, though Lauren does connect with Dave (Bradley Whitford), a grumpy middle-aged man whose gruff exterior hides a softer side—a plot thread that begins to move the film in a more promising direction. However, this development doesn’t arrive until about an hour into the 90-minute movie, and by then, the filmmaker has largely lost control of the narrative. This is regrettable, as Landecker demonstrates some skill as both director and storyteller during this portion of the film; however, the issues present earlier in the story overshadow any positive aspects. The film’s numerous flaws are also a disservice to the talented cast assembled here, particularly those in supporting roles like Missi Pyle, Gaby Hoffmann, Simon Helberg, and Spencer Stevenson, who are essentially reduced to minor appearances or characters tasked with trying to prop up a failing plot. Ultimately, Landecker's directorial debut is disappointing, but given her evident talent as an actress—demonstrated here and in previous work like “A Serious Man” (2009)—one can only hope that she improves as a writer and director in future projects where she can better showcase her potential.

Source on TMDB