[closer]

Closer, adapted by Patrick Marber from his hit play, is somewhat grounded by the characteristics of a play. It consists of a series of scenes that never move from one location, are entirely filled with dialouge, with large gaps in between during which events involving more movement than a play would be able to contain are only described later. Which isn't to say Closer doesn't work. It does have a couple of scenes, bookending the film, that set it apart from a play, and it's not like a film that feels like a play can't be amazing.

Closer shows the beginning to two relationships, watches them break down and crumble, and either begin again or end forever. It's both a wise, witty, and drearily cynical excursion that is relieved by director Mike Nichols' forward-pacing, relatively short running time, terrific acting, and some flashes of brilliant humor (especially towards the beginning). In other words, Scenes from a Marriage lite. Nichols' seems well in control of each and every shot, composition, and verbal exhange, which is a good position for a director to be in if they're directing something with an unappetizing a subject as Closer's.

Performance-wise, all four of the actors who make up more or less the entire cast of Closer (without checking this, I think only they have speaking roles) give great performances. The standout is Clive Owen, who is both funny and raw.

Rating: 3 stars