Michael L (dukeofpearl)

This somewhat pretentious infidelity yarn which is actually better than expected is no doubt due to the fine performances and chemistry of the two leads, Diane Lane and Richard Gere. Lane is more than sexy as the spouse who wanders and Gere surprisingly shines as the curious turned jealous then obsessive hubby in a story that takes a different and unexpected twist. An additional twist (if I may play with words) is the formidable tryst who is admirably played by the Frenchman Olivier Martinez. This versatile French actor may have dipped into a bit of his personal past when he sparred in the ring as a boxer to exchange both physical and more notably, mental blows with the respective leads. "Unfaithful" also has director Adrien Lynne returning to the infidelity theme he was successful in both his 1993 "Indecent Proposal" as well as his 1987 triumph, "Fatal Attraction" which is widely recognized as a landmark of the genre. He also attempts to surpass the steamy scenes from an earlier film - 9 1/2 Weeks - that infamously gave him notoriety among film censors but thankfully in this 2002 release the passion is far less bizarre while still being on quite sensual and passionate.

Billy Wilder's 'The Apartment' is the definitive movie for the comedy/drama genre. A film which can produce some of the biggest laughs and at the same time can bring many viewers to tears. Billy Wilder's quaint little tale about everyday people who get tangled up in love, jealousy and infidelity boasts a top-notch cast led by the trio of Lemmon, MacLaine and MacMurray who are tremendous. The plot revolves around C.C. (Lemmon) who unknowingly makes the unethical attempt of climbing the corporate ladder by 'loaning' his apartment to members from his management chain to entertain their 'women on the side'. Given the change of circumstances, this premise certainly could even hit home in the current office environment. Although the office party and secretarial gossip scenes could be viewed as dated, the power and attitude of the corporate executive, Mr. Sheldrake (MacMurray) is certainly symbolic. The character of Fran (MacLaine) for today's standards of course seems too submissive and vulnerable but the reward of her finding true, admirable, unconditional companionship is quite enriching and fulfilling to any who see this memorable film. And don't forget the memorable title song, 'The Jealous Lover' which is beautifully haunting as it is being very apropos.