"The Nest" – A Deep Dive into a Troubled Marriage

Is there any hope for Rory and Allison? That's the big question in "The Nest," a powerful drama about a married couple whose relationship starts to fall apart when they move from upstate New York to a cold, old house near London.

Plot Overview:

Rory (Jude Law) and Allison (Carrie Coon) are already having problems in their marriage. Rory is an investment banker, and Allison raises horses and teaches riding. They were so busy with their own lives that they didn’t notice the warning signs. Moving to England, where Rory grew up, makes all their issues impossible to ignore.

Their children notice the problems too. Their teenage daughter, Sam (Oona Roche), becomes more cynical and rebellious after the move. Their younger son, Ben (Charlie Shotwell), becomes withdrawn and you start to worry about his well-being.

Direction and Cinematography:

Writer and director Sean Durkin creates a story that’s both simple and profound. The film is beautifully shot, with every scene carefully chosen to highlight the emotions and tensions. The cinematography, editing, and music all work together perfectly, adding to the film’s impact.

Performances:

Jude Law gives one of his best performances as Rory, a man who wants to appear successful but is falling apart inside. His character is complex and flawed, reminiscent of roles he’s played in the past, like in "The Talented Mr. Ripley."

Carrie Coon is equally impressive as Allison. Her performance is raw and real, making you feel every bit of her frustration and pain. She has several standout scenes, especially a tense dinner where she can no longer hide her resentment towards Rory.

Themes and Comparisons:

The film feels like a mix of other great works. It has the emotional depth of "Mad Men" and the intense personal drama of John Cheever’s stories. Like the cult classic "The Swimmer," it balances detailed observations with larger themes about life and failure.

Final Thoughts:

"The Nest" is a deeply affecting film about a marriage in crisis. It’s not just about the characters’ problems, but also about the societal pressures and personal failures that contribute to their downfall. By the end, the film leaves you with a sense of realism and acceptance, rather than a clear resolution.

You don’t necessarily root for the characters, but you do understand them. This makes "The Nest" a powerful exploration of family and the complexities of human relationships.