Is Breaking the Rules Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2023)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Comedy cinema, the 2023 release of Breaking the Rules stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Kyle and his husband David are bored and having marital problems mostly because they envy their close friends Mark and Richard who keep extolling the virtues of an open relationship. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Kyle and his husband David are bored and having marital problems mostly because they envy their close friends Mark and Richard who keep extolling the virtues of an open relationship. One night while lying in bed Kyle and David decide to do something to spice things up by declaring they are going to pursue a "non-sexual open relationship". Kyles's sister Gabby is claiming to be "bi" because she thinks it makes her look cool. So Kyle also decides to help his sister out by finding her a woman who is willing to help her explore her bisexuality. Enter Trey a former student of David who leads him into sexual relationship thus breaking the rules of he and Kyle's new open relationship arrangement. Enter Margaret who has every intention of dating Gaby and pursuing true love. Enter a series of bad dates that Kyle goes on in retaliation of David's affair and chaos ensues. Can these relationships be saved?"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Peter Szeliga provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Paul Hart is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 89 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Breaking the Rules truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Breaking the Rules explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2023 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Paul Hart respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Breaking the Rules is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Peter Szeliga or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Breaking the Rules is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.