In The Bedroom MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 Content: -3

Do two wrongs ever make a right? Ruth and Matt Fowler (Sissy Spacek and Tom Wilkinson) live comfortably in a small New England town. Ruth, a high school music teacher and Matt a medical doctor, are very proud of their son Frank (Nick Stahl), a college student with a bright future. While home for the summer, Frank becomes involved with Natalie (Marisa Tomei), an older woman in the throes of divorcing an abusive husband. In a few brief moments, Ruths and Matts dreams for their son are ripped from them, turning them into angry, vindictive parents. IN THE BEDROOM portrays the devastation and intense, emotional ripple effects of one act of violence. Its definitely intended for mature audiences who will find the suspense and Oscar quality performances mesmerizing but depressing.

Ruth strongly disapproves of Franks affair with Natalie, not for moral reasons as much as for fear that Natalies ex-husband might hurt Frank. But Matt thinks its just a harmless summer romance. Matt and Ruth, two highly intelligent, loving adults become cold and bitter toward each other, smoldering until their marital volcano finally erupts. Revenge brings them back together, but viewers know any hope for their inner peace has been destroyed because two wrongs can never make a right. There is no sex or nudity, but sex is implied a few times between Frank and Natalie. A gory closeup of one character shot in the face, plus another shot multiple times are difficult to watch. Foul language includes 12 obscenities and 11 regular profanities. In our minds, the graphic violence and foul language are both gratuitous, but the depressing theme of tragic choices makes IN THE BEDROOM a major disappointment.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Miramax Films, 375 Greenwich St., New York, NY, 10013