2 Days in New York
In 2007, Julie Delpy wrote, directed, produced, and starred in the generally charming 2 Days in Paris, a whirlwind look at the clashing cultural values of Paris-born photographer Marion (Delpy) and her husband Jack (Adam Goldberg). Jack's nowhere to be found in Delpy's newest, 2 Days in New York; these days, Marion is married to Mingus (Chris Rock), a Village Voice writer turned radio host (he's cornered the New York market on jobs that pretty much no longer exist). The couple share custody of two children from previous marriages, living quite happily in their tiny apartment—until Marion's family descends for a visit. Delpy openly courts Woody Allen comparisons here, but—more so than in Paris—her limiting factor is humor. New York just isn't funny, though it strains to be; Delpy's family members are high-volume caricatures, and her own character's intensity is hard to take after about 15 minutes.
by Alison Hallett