Rating: 42 out of 50
Story 10/10, Talent 10/10, Video 9/10, Audio 6/10, Special Features 7/10

In 2002, the DVD release of Husbands and Wives brought one of Woody Allen's finest films to home video. Initially released only a few months after the much publicized breakup of Allen's long relationship with Mia Farrow, the story of a much older man who pursues a young woman paralleled Allen and Farrow's real-life situation. Allen has always denied that the film is autobiographical but whatever the truth on this score, there is an undeniable pseudo-documentary feel that is enhanced by Allen's use of experimental camera and editing techniques. Also noteworthy are the fine acting performances by Allen, Farrow, Judy Davis (who was nominated for an Academy Award), Sidney Pollack, Liam Neeson, Lysette Anthony and Juliette Lewis, whose career blossomed circa the 1992 theatrical release.

Woody Allen as Gabe Roth

Story (10)

Gabe Roth (Allen) is a College Professor and writer whose marriage to wife Judy (Farrow) has hit a rough patch. Gabe is preoccupied with a novel he is writing while Judy focuses on a baby she would like to have if Gabe were only willing. Their best friends Jack and Sally (Pollack and Davis) make a startling announcement one night before dinner-they are separating on a trial basis. While Jack and Sally pursue new relationships, the news prompts Gabe and Judy to explore their own troubled marriage. The result is one of the richest stories of Allen's career, with equal parts gut-wrenching emotion and dark humor.

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