My Rating: 3.62/4 (aka You don’t need to see it but if you do then you’ll probably enjoy it)

One line summary: A middle-aged couple navigate their separation after 20 years of marriage.

The Deets: My hot take is that Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut remake of “A Star is Born” is trending to be his “Pulp Fiction.” Not that I think he and Tarantino are equivalent filmmakers, totally different and interested in very different themes, but we will find out whether Cooper peaked too soon. He took a risk with “Maestro,” which I really respect, and now he wades into an original story of middle-aged relationships / marriage that lands, but somehow doesn’t achieve transcendence; and that’s part of the challenge with making a great movie that moves you, then the audience (and us demanding critics) demand it every time. I really liked this film, and I think Will Arnett and Laura Dern are both excellent; especially Arnett at the center, with his gravely, vulnerable self, he is very believable. But I was shocked to see an 87% RT score. Seems high for lacking that next level wisdom. Perhaps because I grew up on the wit and wisdom of “Annie Hall,” the bar is too high. You should watch this one, though, and I trust you will enjoy it just the right amount.

Perfect for: If you’re in the mood for a wannabe romcom that is funny enough and sort of real enough and will leave you mostly satisfied.

Where to watch: You can rent it on most streaming services except for Netflix.

Food pairing: Cheeseburger sliders.