Separate Ways

Separate Ways is a 1981 film that explores the intricacies of a failing marriage between two people who have grown apart after years of living together. Directed by Howard Avedis, the film stars Karen Black as Vicki, a beautiful but troubled woman, and Tony Lo Bianco as Robert, her workaholic husband who is struggling to balance his professional and personal life.

The film begins with a shot of Vicki and Robert in bed, where it quickly becomes apparent that their once-strong relationship has deteriorated beyond repair. Vicki is fidgety and restless, unable to sleep, while Robert seems oblivious to her discomfort, more concerned with his upcoming business trip. As the film progresses, it is revealed that Vicki has been having an affair with another man, and Robert is struggling to come to terms with this betrayal while maintaining his composure in public.

The film takes place over the course of one long weekend, during which Vicki and Robert must confront the truth about their marriage and decide if they want to try to make things work or go their separate ways. Along the way, they encounter a variety of colorful characters, including a nosy neighbor played by Arlene Golonka, who offers unsolicited advice on their relationship, and a sleazy businessman who tries to seduce Vicki during a night out on the town.

Throughout the course of the film, Karen Black delivers a powerful performance as a woman who is torn between two worlds, struggling to reconcile her desire for freedom and independence with her loyalty to her husband and family. Tony Lo Bianco also shines as a man who is desperately trying to save his marriage but ultimately realizes that he cannot control the actions of his wife.

The film is full of emotional highs and lows, with moments of intense drama and heart-wrenching despair interspersed with moments of levity and humor. The cinematography is evocative, capturing the moody atmosphere of the couple's upscale Los Angeles home and the vibrant energy of the city streets.

Despite its flaws, Separate Ways is ultimately a poignant and moving portrait of a relationship in crisis, with excellent performances from its two leads and a strong supporting cast. It offers a sobering reminder of the fragility of love and the importance of communication and compromise in any truly successful partnership.