In Fidelity is a drama film that, at first glance, might mislead viewers into thinking it’s a romantic comedy. This film, written and directed by Rob Margolies, intricately explores how severe illnesses and death can trigger discussions within relationships that people tend to avoid. Infidelity is often understood in one way, but this film reflects on how fidelity is a promise we make to our lives and ourselves, and how to truly live without losing who we are.
Parnell along with Cara Buono plays Lyle and Holly Ayker in In Fidelity. The couple is a picture-perfect married duo from New York, but their world shatters when the wife learns she has terminal cancer. Towards the end of Holly’s life, she comes to terms with so many realities and in a conversation with Lyle, she requests to be intimate with their neighbour, opening Pandora’s box of existential questions about love and life.
Holly’s opening line, “I don’t want you to be alone”, serves as a double meaning in this case because it captures her post-death wife worries, but it also suggests what seems to be a far greater concern about Lyle’s conventionalism. How will he navigate a new reality where everyone around him is trying to be as different and “out there” as possible? From the couple’s fiery eccentric daughter who is trying to be an artist to their aged rockstar neighbour, Lyle’s idea of normal and normal living couldn’t be more different. So, this phrase and idea of “being normal” subtly come across as thematic threads sprinkled into the film, and so brilliantly that no one feels as if they are being beaten over the head with it. And like with everything Margolies does, it never feels like we are being bludgeoned by such subtlety. Instead, there is enough distance for us to think and reflect on ourselves.
Regarding normalcy, it was refreshing to notice how proper Margolies was with Holly and Lyle. Instead of giving the two extreme character development and adding chaotic events for flavor, the director chose to keep them predictable and level-headed. And this added a layer of complexity to them that I am sure Margolies did not intend. Even more, it never feels like we’re being forced to push against the stability; Normalcy can be profound and doesn’t mean stagnation and absence of living.
In the third part of the film, I had to struggle to keep my focus, as the jokes started to become repetitive and fell flat. Regardless, at this moment in the movie, it was pretty evident just how difficult it was to empathize with any of the supporting cast. They’ve become far too self-interested at this point. By the end, it’s clear that they’re more concerned with their own agendas and finances than what Lyle is going through. As nice as it would’ve been to see more from them, I respect this more honest depiction because it starkly illustrates how they are surplus to Lyle’s growth. Initially, I thought they were unnecessary to the movie entirely, but they offer a unique perspective that helps frame Lyle’s character.
In Fidelity appeals to those who want a calm faster-paced show since it is not too sweet, overly dramatic, or emotionally draining. The show portrays interactions and events as simple by being confident, slightly dry, and vulnerable at the perfect moments. Unlike the onslaught of family drama and cheesy romcoms during the holidays, this show is refreshing and distinctive, making it all the more enjoyable.
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