triples

A Fish in the Bathtub

"A Fish in the Bathtub" (directed by Joan Micklin Silver) is a quaint little comedy-drama that revolves around a long-married couple who constantly bicker. When Molly decides she's had enough and leaves, Sam is left to navigate life on his own. Jerry Stiller (as Sam) is great (as he always is). The movie has a charming, old-fashioned feel, but the pacing can be a bit off, and it can feel slightly too long at times. However, the emotion throughout is incredibly palpable, and I teared up a few times. I love films about dysfunctional families (no comment). Despite the subject matter at hand, the film never feels too heavy or downright depressing. It's actually quite cozy for how chaotic and messy the characters are. The acting is strong across the board. Ruthie's character (played by Jane Adams), in particular, is delightful as the innocent bystander-type daughter who likes to stir the pot. Probably my favorite character in this one. The jazz soundtrack is pretty great too. Also, the movie is just really damn funny. It might not be for everyone, but I'd recommend this one! (Fun fact - this was my first watch on MUBI - thanks Patrick Willems!)

nathansnook

A Fish in the Bathtub

“𝘍𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭.” This line follows. “𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘳.” Feels very much like those late 90s / early 2000s Woody Allen films. Jerry Stiller was built for this role with fast and sharp wit. Immaculate delivery. He meanders and sways much like any Silver film, but here its heft in charm lies in family, the falling apart, the coming together, and how feelings settle in the end.