Committed MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2 1/2

Staying committed in a marriage seems to become less common as time goes on. People just dont do it as often anymore and thats what everyone tells Joline (Heather Graham). But Joline wont hear any of it. Two years into their marriage, her husband Carl (Luke Wilson) takes off to find himself. Determine to stay faithful to Carl, she waits for him to get through his difficulties. However, after he leaves the state, Joline decides to go find him, so she can at least keep an eye on him and make sure hes okay. She finds him in El Paso, and while there, meets several interesting people, including Carls flirtatious neighbor Neil (Goran Visnjic of TVs ER). But will Carl ever come back to her? COMMITTED is a sweet story with a likable lead actress in Heather Graham. And even though the story falls short in a few places, its an overall enjoyable experience that will particularly appeal to younger adults.

Lengthy marriages that stay together through the hard times are few and far between these days. And while this movie doesnt portray a perfect situation, it does include some clear and simple statements on the importance of commitment and marriage. As the movie opens, Joline is convinced that marriage is not that hard to understand. Her theory is that when someone makes a vow, they should be expected to keep it, even in the toughest of times. And for a great deal of the film, Joline exhibits that attitude, sometimes even to a fault. This kind of optimism and clarity is rarely seen in Hollywood, and is a refreshing part of this film. The movie does have its share of foul language, with 23 f-words and 8 s-words, as well as one scene where a man dances suggestively with an anatomically correct female doll. The film also includes one character who casts spells for people. His practices are portrayed in a positive light since Joline apparently approves of and utilizes his services a great deal. Despite the commendable message about commitment in marriage, the film simply commits too many offenses.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Miramax Films, 375 Greenwich, NY, NY 10013