The Simian Line

2001 Comedy

Director Linda Yellen spins this study of four couples as they struggle to maintain their relationships. Middle-aged divorcée and landlord Katharine (Lynn Redgrave) is completely smitten with her live-in lover Rick (Harry Connick, Jr.). She loves throwing parties, and on one Halloween she hosts a dinner for some wildly dissimilar guests: her tenets Sandra (Cindy Crawford) and Paul (Jamey Sheridan) are conservative professionals, while fellow building dwellers Marta (Monica Keena) and Billy (Dylan Bruno) are rock musicians. Also at the party is wacky psychic Arnita (Tyne Daly). During dinner, Arnita sees the spirits of another couple: Mae (Samantha Mathis), a flapper from the 1920s, and Katharine's great-grandfather Edward (William Hurt). Unnerved, Arnita predicts that one couple will split up by year's end. Though initially shaken, the guests brush her off as a nut. Yet toward the year's end, Katharine grows increasingly jealousy of Rick's flirtation with Sandra. more..

Director: Linda Yellen

Starring: Lynn Redgrave, Jamey Sheridan, Cindy Crawford, Samantha Mathis, Dylan Bruno

 18 Reviews

Reviews

  • Though picture is at times undermined by a lack of unifying perspective, its glimmers of greatness are a testament to the talent involved.

    - Variety

    20 January 2013

  • These formidable actresses , abetted by a persuasive Connick, and by Hurt as the most genteel and benevolent of ghosts, set a high standard for a splendid ensemble cast.

    Kevin Thomas - Los Angeles Times

    20 January 2013

  • One of those exercises in romantic whimsy that misses its mark: It's alternately sappy and uncomfortably harsh.

    Jonathan Foreman - New York Post

    20 January 2013

  • Surprisingly, some of the best moments come from supermodel Crawford and singer Connick, two acting tyros not generally known for their dramatic skills.

    Ken Fox - TV Guide

    20 January 2013

  • The film tries hard to avoid cliché but doesn't get very far.

    - Village Voice

    20 January 2013

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