Dreary, rather annoying film-adaptation of Sue Miller's book (directed by Leonard Nimoy!) has Diane Keaton in one of her weakest roles as a single mother sued for custody of her child by her ex-husband. Seems mom's new Bohemian boyfriend (Liam Neeson) is a bad influence, and after Keaton's little girl sees Neeson undressed and begins asking grown-up questions about sex, any viewer might understandably side with the ex (who is made to be the villain of the piece). Beginning with a puzzling prologue which hopes to show the different ways in which we view sexuality, Nimoy's take on this material is just confounding. Keaton never really develops a character, and I presume we're supposed to empathize with her simply because she's lovable Diane Keaton. Aside from some OK technical merits, the film is muddled beyond repair. * from ****

Story about a divorced woman (Diane Keaton) who has custody of her daughter (Asia Vieira). She starts dating a sexually liberated man (Liam Neeson) and they get serious. At one point the child touches Neeson's penis (not shown) and her ex (James Naughton) finds out and starts a custody battle saying she's an unfit mother.

I like this movie a lot--but I am prejudiced. It was shot in Cambridge MA and I lived in that area back then so it was great to see it on a big screen. That aside the story is unpleasant (for obvious reasons) but compelling. It shows each side of the issue and really makes you think. It doesn't end happily but realistically and I applaud that. Acting is great by the leads and Jason Robards shines in a role as an understanding lawyer. Some may find this slow and depressing but I was fascinated. Worth a look.

Not particularly pleasant to watch. The events at the heart of this movie are supposed to be thought of ambiguously, as maybe not such a big deal. I don't know about 1988 Boston, but I live in the South in 2005. I think that here and now, if these sort of things came to light, there would be a lot more going on than a custody dispute. Probably a major criminal investigation, at minimum. Anyone has the right to live a bohemian or libertine lifestyle, but not necessarily the right to subject children to such things.

The movie could have developed the character of the ex-husband a bit more. As it stands you really don't know if his motivations are reasonable concerns about his child, or if he simply intends to stick it to his ex.

Everything else about the film, aside from the material was just fine. The lead acting, the child actor, Leonard Nimoy's direction were all good. Katey Sagal was good and looked scrumptious in a small part.

Worth checking out if you are willing to forgo the car chases and alien wars, and think about something. But don't expect to enjoy it.