A divorced couple celebrating their son’s college graduation wonder if there is anything left of their original relationship. Complicating matters is the fact that Jake is remarried to a younger woman and Jane has just met an architect who is showing interest in her. Jane is faced with an empty nest, two men who want her and the possibility of digging up old wounds from her divorce or traveling down a new path in life.

This is an engaging romantic comedy with some better than average writing and great actors in the lead roles. Streep is excellent as usual, making Jane someone you’d like to sit down and spend an afternoon with. Alec Baldwin steals scenes with his impeccable comic timing as the charming ex-husband Jake. Steve Martin is excellent as well in a low-key performance as the somewhat reserved, intelligent architect who is Jane’s new love interest. John Krasinski is a bright light in every scene as he makes the most of the son-in-law’s clever dialogue.

It’s Complicated is an enjoyable romantic comedy that is elevated by its stars, with a sturdy screenplay and adept direction by Nancy Meyers. There is nothing new or earth shattering in this movie plot when it comes to romantic comedies, but it is one of the best of its genre and well worth watching.

2009. Written and directed by Nancy Meyers. Starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin, John Krasinski, Lake Bell, Mary Kay Place, Alexandra Wentworth and Rita Wilson.

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