Based on the novel of the same name by Ayelet Aldman, “Love and Other Impossible Pursuits” deals with divorce, step-parenting, grief and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). I guess one of  the main reasons why this movie didn’t make it on first theatre release (note that it was made in 2009) is because it was falsely advertised as a Comedy/Drama about a woman’s difficult relationship with her stepson. You’ll notice that this is only a small part of the story, and that the film is hardly a comedy. There are smiles, but certainly no laughs. With that aside, the movie still delivers some solid emotional moments. Natalie Portman in the lead is more than enough to hook you up, and she actually proves her acting talent yet again in this difficult, multi-layered role. She plays the second wife of a New York lawyer who is burdened by guilt born out of a mistaken belief that she might have accidentally smothered her three day old baby to death. Her guilt clouds her judgement and alienates her from friends and family. No sign of comedy here. Portman’s performance is enhanced by that of Charlie Tahan, the talented young actor who plays William, her stepson. Their scenes together are probably the best thing about the movie, and they are both likable and a treat to watch. And though the film has many apparent flaws, the opportunity to watch Natalie Portman in something completely different for once is reason enough for you to watch this small, but effective relationship drama. A.k.a “The Other Woman”.

Rating: 2.5/4