by Shane Conto, Staff Writer

What are some of the things you have learned from watching a film? Documentaries are obvious, in that they are non-fiction, and many are naturally there to help you learn about something. There are endless documentaries that take on any topic that you can imagine. But plenty of films are out there, trying to deliver themes that inspire us or make us afraid. Those opposite emotions lead to similar a outcome… learning (even if not all the information is accurate). But animated films certainly pack plenty of meaning and messaging in there for their young audiences, which is what all the best ones do.

But what do you learn from watching Signe Baumane’s latest film, My Love Affair with Marriage? You will learn all things conception, birth, menstruation, and attraction. Yes… in an animated film. But what is so surprising about it all is how detailed and engaging these little lessons are, as they are embedded into the film. Oddly enough, you can get a whole lot less from health class in the runtime of this film. The impressively animated and detailed diagrams do a great job of displaying these phenomena, and the narrative is fun and engaging. You will certainly learn a thing or two. But these scenes are not just there for biology lessons. They assist in creating suspense in certain moments and give added weight to others. This might be a strange film, but it certainly has its impact. 

But what is the true key to the success of My Love Affair with Marriage? The maincharacter, Zelma (voiced by Dagmara Dominczyk). She is a fascinating protagonist with complexity and plenty of emotion. She is strange and quirky in many ways as well, making for a lead character who is bound to get caught up in interesting relationships and dynamics. Her search for love is also relatable, which makes the film that much more engaging for the audience. We are in her corner throughout the film, whether she is processing growing up, finding love, processing trauma, or finding herself in the end. But what is most impactful in her journey is the processing of a horribly traumatic and toxic marriage she desperately sought out. Zelma fell into the common trap of trading healthy connections for the presence of one. Her dynamic with Sergei (Cameron Monaghan) is problematic in so many ways, as he gaslights her for a long time. We see relationships such as this in real life everyday, and it helps process the damage that can result. 

Does My Love Affair with Marriage maximize the medium it utilizes? We love to see interesting and engrossing approaches to animation, since it is solidly in its maturity phase. This film offers something strange and bold in a way that makes it stand out, but it also reflects the world shown in its story. The world and background are a strange photorealistic type of creation which are gritty and lived-in. The characters are animated drawings that seem to clash with the background, but stand out in their own unique ways. Zelma stands on her own with her quirks, and the character designs reflect that.

Is My Love Affair with Marriage the hidden gem of animation in 2023? Absolutely. Not only that, it is also one of the most unique and bold offerings in animation this year. It has so much to say in its own strange way. But it is also so authentic and relatable, as we experience so much that Zelma does. This is a wonderful film that is worth the crazy ride it takes you on. 

Rating: Loved It

My Love Affair with Marriage is currently playing in theaters


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