Hollywood couple Sally (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and Joe Therrian (Alan Cumming) invite their friends and others to their home for their sixth year anniversary party. His novel is being adapted but she's not being cast as the lead. Young starlet Skye Davidson (Gwyneth Paltrow) who got the role is invited. They are disputing with their neighbors about their dog's barking and somehow got into the party. The party starts lightly but with underlining tension. However the party deteriorates.
There are so many characters and so many relationships to keep track of. The large compelling cast of actors is both its appeal and its handicap. There are no throw away characters which is great but it also means there are no throw away characters. There are some fun moments but it feels a little random. Phoebe Cates does return from retirement with her real husband Kevin Kline and their kids. The movie has the feel of watching a real party. JJL and Cumming just need to refine their script to sharpen the humor.
There are so many characters and so many relationships to keep track of. The large compelling cast of actors is both its appeal and its handicap. There are no throw away characters which is great but it also means there are no throw away characters. There are some fun moments but it feels a little random. Phoebe Cates does return from retirement with her real husband Kevin Kline and their kids. The movie has the feel of watching a real party. JJL and Cumming just need to refine their script to sharpen the humor.