Woody Allen stars as Val Waxman, a two-time Oscar winner turned washed-up, neurotic director in desperate need of a comeback. When it comes, Waxman finds himself backed into a corner: Work for his ex-wife Ellie or forfeit his last shot. Is Val blinded by love when he opts for the reconnect? Is love blind when it comes to Ellie's staunch support? Literally and figuratively, the proof is the picture.
The premise may be outrageous, but the film is full of witty lines, delightful scenes and sharp performances.
– Michael Wilmington,
Chicago Tribune,
20 Jul 2002
rotten:
It lacks critical mass and droops in the middle like a worn-out saddle horse.
– Bill Muller,
Arizona Republic,
13 Jun 2002
rotten:
The frog prince of New York comedy again wallows in the middle of the frame as various familiar faces, namely various princes and princesses from television, dart about him like so many flies with a death wish.