“Splitsville” follows a man who learns that the secret to happiness is an open marriage after his wife asks for a divorce.

A Cast That Carries

“Splitsville” is anchored by a quartet of strong performances.

Dakota Johnson (Julie) continues to prove she is a force to be reckoned with. She fully embodies this character – seductive, intellectual and emotional – while still making her feel like a real person. Adria Arjona (Ashley) continues her rise as an actor to watch, bringing charisma and energy to every scene she enters.

Kyle Marvin (Carey) and Michael Angelo Covino (Paul) excel as well. Marvin shoulders much of the film’s emotional weight, anchoring the story in his character’s perspective. Covino plays things more understated, but communicates plenty through facial expressions and subtle mannerisms. Together, their chemistry fuels much of the movie’s comedy.

Charlie Gillespie (Jackson) deserves mention too. Though his role is smaller, he continuously brings bursts of humor and charm whenever he appears.

Funny and Heartfelt

“Splitsville” is a very funny movie, but it’s also layered with serious ideas. It tackles monogamy, marriage, faithfulness, honesty, confrontation and the fear of settling. These themes are explored through wild, over-the-top scenarios. The opening sequence immediately sets the tone and lets the audience know what kind of ride they’re in for.

The film never loses its comedic edge, thanks to the cast’s charisma and a sharp, witty script. At the same time, it pulses with an emotional core. It highlights how marriages can fizzle out for countless reasons, often because couples struggle to communicate their fears and desires. These tensions are at the center of the film, as the characters navigate open relationships and the uncertainties of divorce.

Ultimately, “Splitsville” reminds us that humans are flawed by nature. While it occasionally gives its characters too much slack, the message remains clear and effective.

Chaotic and Flawed, But Alive

The movie also deserves credit for its pacing. Split into several distinct parts, “Splitsville” races through its 104-minute runtime. The fast structure mirrors the whirlwind of life events and character choices. This makes the storytelling feel as frantic as the relationships themselves.

That said, the absurdist style causes some momentum loss in the final act. After two-thirds filled with surprises and sharp shifts, the conclusion feels predictable.

The characters are also deliberately unlikeable, which works within the film’s intent but makes them difficult to root for. This doesn’t undercut the performances, but it does leave the audience at a distance.

“Splitsville” succeeds because of its clever script and stellar cast. Johnson, Arjona, Marvin and Covino breathe life and laughs into flawed, complicated characters. In 2025, the rom-com is alive and well, and “Splitsville” earns its place as another memorable entry in the genre.

Rating: 4 out of 5