XX/XY ** (2002, Mark Ruffalo, Kathleen Robertson, Maya Stange, Petra Wright) – Classic Movie Review 3162

Writer-director Austin Chick’s 2002 romantic drama XX/XY stars Mark Ruffalo, whose character Coles becomes involved with college students Thea and Sam (Kathleen Robertson and Maya Stange) in a three-way relationship that spirals out of control. There are dire consequences when a chance reunion 10 years later puts a spanner in the works of Ruffalo’s new relationship with Claire (Petra Wright).

Good performances, especially Ruffalo’s, help along a truthful, if limping and too-arty relationship drama, with some absorbing scenes. It is decent enough, but it could be more compelling.

Also in the cast are Kel O’Neill, Zach Shaffer, John A MacKay, Tommy Nohilly, David Thornton, Jeff Ward, Evan Neumann, William Keeler, Ben Tolpin and Paula Roth.

XX/XY is directed by Austin Chick, runs 91 minutes, is made by Intrinsic Value Films, Natural Nylon Entertainment, The 7th Floor, is released by IFC Films (2003) (US) and Optimum Releasing (2003) (UK), is written by Austin Chick, is shot by Uta Briesewitz, is produced by Mitchell Robbins (executive producer / producer), Isen Robbins and Aimee Schoof, is scored by The Insects and is designed by Judy Becker.

It is rated R for sexuality, language, and brief drug use.

Two of Chick’s married friends started divorce proceedings shortly after seeing XX/XY.

By 2019, Chick has made only two more films: August (2008) with Josh Hartnett, Naomie Harris, and Adam Scott and Girls Against Boys (2012) with Nicole LaLiberte, Danielle Panabaker, and Matthew Rauch.

© Derek Winnert 2015 Classic Movie Review 3162

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