Paul Simon had the quirky break-up song ‘%0 ways to leave your lover’  There are probably ,even more ways to leave a marriage. Most ways aren’t very smooth and end up causing even more pain and heartache.

Charlie and Nicole’s marriage has reached its expiry date and the film starts with them already going through the process. The most worrying part of the process is the effect that it has on their eight years old son, Henry.

Noah Baumbach’s film is a very credible, down  to earth drama about one family’s journey. Lawyers feature large in it, often making things worse. Charlie and Nicole try to come up with an agreement without the lawyers without  lsuccess, as they fall into arguments. The most peaceful  times are those times which they spend with Henry.

Baumbach wins good performances from his cast. Adam Driver is very convincing as hard working theatre director Charlie who is soon to make his Broadway debut.

Scarlett Johansson gives a lovely, well measured performance as actress, Nicole who had given up a growing television career to appear in her husband’s plays.

Azhy Robertson gives a fine performance as their Henry who tries to keep calm whilst there is disquiet around him.

Laura Dern shines in very scene as Nicole’s tough, straight shooting lawyer Nora.

Charlie swaps lawyers during the divorce process. First he hires the compassionate, softly softly approach of Bert Spitz, played well by Alan Alda then he goes to brazen,  tough talking lawyer Jay played by Ray Liotta.

MARRIAGE STORY  is a heartfelt, authentic drama well worth a visit.