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TWO LOVERS (Running Time: 108 min; Rated: R)

Reviewed by Denise Castillón

TWO LOVERS studies the romantic obsession within a love triangle formed by lovers who are drawn to the others’ neediness and their peculiar desire to rescue them. The marvel of this emotionally-masochistic drama is how most of the viewing audience will be able to relate to this tale through their own past, disastrous relationships.

TWO LOVERS acquires an old-fashion appearance from the gloomy and outdated Brighton Beach neighborhood, where Leonard Kraitor (Joaquin Phoenix) lives with his parents (Isabella Rossellini and Moni Moshonov) in their Brooklyn apartment.

After returning home from a mysterious hospital stay, Leonard holds an undemanding job in the family dry cleaning business. His concerned parents set up their brooding son with Sandra (Vinessa Shaw), the lovely, dark-haired daughter of a business colleague. Before the two start their courtship, Leonard meets the luminous, yet self-destructive Michelle (Gwyneth Paltrow), who’s involved with her married boss. As the intrigued Leonard pursues his infatuation for Michelle, he maintains a “back-up” relationship with Sandra, who’s falling deeply for the wounded Leonard. Meanwhile, Michelle enjoys Leonard’s attentiveness as she cries on his ready shoulders over her hopeless love affair. In the end, Leonard must resolve his future that may or may not include Michelle.

TWO LOVERS stars Joaquin Phoenix, Gwyneth Paltrow, Vinessa Shaw (“The Hills Have Eyes”), Isabella Rossellini, John Ortiz (“Before Night Falls”), and Moni Moshonov (“Late Marriage”).

Directed and co-written by James Gray (“We Own the Night”). The screenplay is by James Gray & Richard Menello. Produced by Donna Gigliotti, James Gray, and Anthony Katagas. Executive producers are Todd Wagner, Mark Cuban and Marc Butan. A 2929 Production. Released by Magnolia Pictures.