Score: B
Director: Mirjana Karanovic
Cast: Mirjana Karanovic, Boris Isakovic, Jasna Djuricic, Bojan Navojec
Running Time: 90 Minutes
Rated: NR
Opening with a humbling sequence that unapologetically showcases our leading lady in all her glory (and flaws) preparing for a night of entertaining, Mirjana Karanovic’s A Good Wife quickly sets the tone for its natural, organic approach as we are introduced to Milena during her barest of moments.
Bearing the role of mother and wife with immense pride, Mirjana’s Milena is cautiously aware of her physical appearance as she spends her days adhering to the needs and wants of her family. She socializes with a group of close friends and entertains with her husband. She prefers order in her life, working hard to avoid the unknown as she keenly navigates through her comfort zone, constantly putting others before herself.
There is no denying that A Good Wife is slow, at times dragging at such a pace that it is sure to frustrate many, especially those anxiously awaiting Milena's life to unravel. But as with any authentic depiction, change comes slowly. And Melina's life proves no different as Mirjana goes a bit beyond the necessary requirement to introduce the characters and situations of her main protagonist's life.
Mirjana bears the weight of the story, appearing in every scene as the camera works to capture moments of her life, allowing viewers to piece together information like a jigsaw puzzle and come to conclusions alongside our central subject. Never more aware than she, the audience is permitted to join Milena on her journey as she methodically goes through the rigors of her daily life.
When Milena is cleaning and uncovers a VCR that ties the local news to her front doorstep, the film quickens its unveilings, taking viewers on a unique internal struggle as the film's basic title is put to the test. Close up camera shots help bring an intimate viewpoint; though Milena’s ability to push thing aside for the sake of her family is nothing short of remarkable.
The film's approach is unique. Lacking glamour and elegance, it keeps things in raw perspective, giving a truly unapologetic look at the sacrifice that comes with being a wife and the moral conflict that can arise as you question your loyalty to yourself and those you call family.
As things continue to unravel and Milena begins to question herself and her decision, you can’t help but feel her pain. When a close friend unexpectedly dies after a confrontation with her husband, the emotional struggle is seen all too clear on Milena’s face, adding another layer to the already super complex character that we have come to love, respect and adore.
Though the ending isn't nearly as cut and dry as one would expect, and Milena rarely gives her own struggles the equal thought of others, the final ten minutes bring everything together. While A Good Wife isn't mainstream fare, its in-depth character study makes it a gem in its own right. You might have to sit through some agonizing moments of unclear direction and excessive detail, but the third act proves worth the wait.
