Olivia Wilde directs The Invite, a chamber comedy that uses the classic theme of a troubled marriage and an impromptu gathering to explore relationships with humor and depth.
The setup is familiar: a couple invites their upstairs neighbors over. Similar scenarios often unfold in cinema and theater, reminiscent of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Yet despite predictable elements, the execution surprises with artful performances and cleverly timed dialogue. Rashida Jones and Will McCormack’s script manages to keep audiences intrigued, offering a modern spin on drawing-room comedies.
Wilde’s directorial prowess shines in her third outing following Booksmart and the less successful Don’t Worry Darling. Her comedic touch is evident in her portrayal of Angela, accentuating the film’s thematic intricacies.
Joe, played by Seth Rogen, an academic in music, and Angela, portrayed by Wilde, seem mismatched from the outset. Their juxtaposing lifestyles — Joe’s utilitarian bike commute versus Angela’s stylish errands — set the stage for existing marital discord.
Movie events quickly escalate when Joe finds Angela has planned a dinner party without informing him. Their daughter is away, and their newfound neighbors, Hawk (Edward Norton) and Pína (Penélope Cruz), soon arrive, intensifying tensions.
Hawk and Pína contrast sharply with Joe and Angela, embodying charisma and confidence. Hawk’s embrace of conflict — “We love a contentious environment” — adds dynamism to their interactions. Cruz’s portrayal as a glamorously poised psychotherapist complements Norton’s role, enriching the narrative.
Central to the film is Angela’s journey of self-discovery. Her performance oscillates between anxiety and desire, reflecting the robust script’s blend of deeply personal themes with lighthearted dialogues.
The title, The Invite, cleverly refers not just to dinner but to an offer of new experiences. Hawk and Pína reveal their sex parties upstairs, potentially enticing Joe and Angela. As curiosity piques, the invitation symbolizes stepping beyond monotonous life patterns, without explicitly promoting radical change.
The insightful performances, especially from Norton, ground the narrative’s exploration of relationship dynamics. While Wilde nods to Oscar Wilde with the reflective quote — “One should always be in love. That is the reason one should never marry” — the film ultimately urges couples toward transformation rather than dissolution.
Though appearing provocative, The Invite delivers thoughtful commentary on monogamy and the evolution of relationships. Its mature content warrants its R rating, balancing narrative edge with earnest reflections.
The Invite by A24 runs for 107 minutes and earns a commendable three and a half stars out of four.