SPLITSVILLE - Review | Cannes Film Festival 2025

Michael Angelo Covino’s latest film takes the “friendship damaged by infidelity” concept from his last film and builds a more ambitious narrative with even more outrageous situations that fully tests the dynamic of open relationships. Along with the additions of Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona matching perfectly well to the energy that the two lead actors provide (Kyle Marvin & Michael Angelo Covino), Splitsville (2025) is a refreshing romantic comedy that avoids conventional tropes and a bland personality while remaining endlessly enjoyable. Even with the delivery of certain jokes getting repetitive, the creative vision and charming but deep story that shows to what extent are you being disloyal in a relationship even with established boundaries; it makes it a must-see for those looking for laughs and more.

Still Courtesy – Neon

Carey (portrayed by Kyle Marvin) and Ashley (portrayed by Adria Arjona) seem like a passionate married couple in the middle of a drive, until an incident makes Ashley confess her infidelity towards Carey. Heartbroken by this, he escapes from Ashley and goes to the luxurious home of his best friend Paul (portrayed by Michael Angelo Covino) and his wife, Julie (portrayed by Dakota Johnson). Given Carey's struggle for what to do about this, that's when Paul and Julie suggest that Carey and Ashley should be what they consider themselves to be, in an open relationship. When Carey starts to be persuaded by this and gives it a try with someone close to Paul, he then suggests it to Ashley and the dynamic between these four individuals will never be the same as before.

After impressing viewers with his impressive debut film, The Climb (2019), his latest collaboration with Kyle Marvin marks a bold expansion of the themes explored in his previous film, particularly the delicate balance between friendship and romantic entanglements. While the latter touched on the strains that infidelity can put on close relationships, Splitsville goes deeper into the complexities of love, trust, and open relationships. Covino, along with co-stars Kyle Marvin and himself, elevates the narrative by incorporating fresh dynamics that probe the boundaries of emotional fidelity. What begins as a simple exploration of infidelity spirals into a series of increasingly outrageous situations that test the limits of relationships, making it a standout in the genre of romantic comedies.

The film is bolstered by the addition of Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona, who fit seamlessly into the established energy of Covino and Marvin. Johnson, known for her ability to blend vulnerability with strength, plays a character whose personality provides a stark contrast to the more neurotic and awkward traits of Covino’s character. Arjona, on the other hand, brings a sharp edge to the narrative, embodying a role that challenges the traditional understanding of what it means to be “faithful” in the context of an open relationship. Their performances blend effortlessly, enhancing the emotional stakes of the film and creating a dynamic that feels both believable and engaging.

What sets Splitsville apart from other romantic comedies is its refusal to rely on conventional tropes or predictable storylines. Rather than offer up a simple narrative of a love triangle or a couple navigating the pitfalls of jealousy, the film dives into deeper philosophical territory, asking how far one can stretch the idea of loyalty when relationships are no longer defined by traditional boundaries. The creative direction behind this exploration is sharp and thoughtful, with Covino’s writing and direction bringing an authenticity to the dialogue and situations that feel refreshingly modern. Each character’s struggle with loyalty and personal identity is treated with sincerity, creating moments that are both heartfelt and laugh-out-loud funny.

Despite the film’s many strengths, some of the humor begins to feel repetitive as the story unfolds. Certain jokes and gags, while initially amusing, begin to lose their edge as they are revisited throughout the film. However, this minor flaw does not detract significantly from the overall experience. In fact, the recurring humor is part of what makes the characters feel more real, as their attempts to navigate increasingly absurd circumstances mirror the awkwardness and uncertainty of real life. The film’s comedic tone, even when it treads familiar ground, still manages to land well enough to maintain momentum.

Ultimately, Splitsville succeeds because it avoids the pitfalls of many romantic comedies that settle for lighthearted escapism over genuine emotional exploration. By examining loyalty, commitment, and the messy, often complicated nature of relationships in a world where traditional norms are being constantly challenged, Covino’s film becomes more than just a series of laughs. It’s a fresh take on love, offering viewers not just comedy but a deeper reflection on the ways we navigate the delicate lines of intimacy. Those looking for a film that offers both humor and heart will find Splitsville a must-see, as it provides a unique perspective on how far we are willing to go in the name of love.

Verdict

8/10