Irreconcilable Differences

When family cracks, who holds the pieces together?

Watch Irreconcilable Differences streaming in

Subscription

Prime Video

Synopsis

"Irreconcilable Differences" is a 1984 American comedy-drama that explores the complexities of divorce through the eyes of a young girl caught in the middle of her celebrity parents’ bitter separation. Directed by Charles Shyer and starring Ryan O’Neal, the film delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by Susan, who is forced to navigate the conflicting worlds of her estranged mother, a passionate and artistic woman, and her father, a successful Hollywood producer. As the family unravels, the movie paints a satirical yet heartfelt picture of relationships, fame, and the impact of personal choices on children. Balancing humor and drama, it offers a poignant look at familial discord in the backdrop of the entertainment industry.

Cast

Reviews

"Irreconcilable Differences" received mixed reviews upon release, reflecting a divided critical reception. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 60% approval rating, indicating moderately favorable reviews. Critics praised its sharp script and the performances, particularly highlighting the film’s satirical take on Hollywood and the issues surrounding divorce and family dynamics. However, some reviewers found the execution uneven, with a few feeling the film struggled to maintain tonal consistency between its comedic and dramatic elements. IMDb users gave it an average score of 5.8/10, suggesting a lukewarm response from the general audience. On Metacritic, the score is 52/100, which aligns with its mixed critical reception. Notably, some reviewers appreciated the film's candid and often humorous approach to a sensitive subject, while others felt it didn't fully realize its potential, leading to a less impactful emotional experience. Overall, "Irreconcilable Differences" is seen as a thoughtful yet imperfect exploration of family conflict and personal identity in the glitzy yet turbulent world of show business.