User reviews

Nice.

While not up to "Jessica Stein" (which remains one of the best NY romantic comedies ever) this is a smart, witty, and winsome romance.

With a wonderful supporting cast and real thought in the filming this is definitely worth the viewing. Complaining that romantic movies are unrealistic is like complaining about the body count in action movies - either it's your cup of tea or it's not - this most definitely is our cup of tea.

Abby and Ira are two unlikely soul mates - she dippy and soulful, he neurotic and unsure; after one day they decide to marry....

Of course you know they'll have problems, and yes, the families, the therapists et al are there; but what separates this out from the herd is two things: firstly, it has modern taste, the filming and shape and arc of the film are much better than most, and secondly, a host of great performances that neatly skewer the comedy.

We enjoyed it, it is not hugely memorable, but it is enjoyable, and on that alone is recommended.

While looking for something with Jon Hamm in it, I stumbled upon his girlfriend, Jennifer Westfeldt's movie, Ira and Abby, and was so glad I did. While Mr. Hamm only has one line in it, the rest of the film kept me very interested in it.

Ms Westfieldt has written a wonderful comedy reminiscent of those of the last decade going back to the 20's, but even more of the sitcoms and movies of the 60's-90's. Writers like Neil Simon and Woody Allen kept us laughing at their comedies with the same wit and fast, sharp tongued dialog that Ms Westfieldt exhibits here in her film. Ever see Mad About You on TV? It's very similar in style to Ira and Abby, right down to it's Jewishness.

Ira is the epitome of the neurotic Jewish young man who can't seem to find happiness anywhere until he meets the quirky Abby and her happy, loving family who are old laid back hippies, much like the format of the TV show Darma and Greg. We just don't get great comedies like these anymore, in movies or TV. His parents are wealthy neurotic psychoanalysts in NYC, of course.

The beginning was slow for me, probably because I didn't like Chris Messina as Ira very much. Another actor would have been better in that role I believe, but no one springs to mind now and they cannot pay the big salaries that Woody Allen productions can. I hung in there hoping to see Jon Hamm and ended up hooked on it (being the lover of great wit that I am) and relished every last word and witty scene.

I loved the acting of the older, more experienced entourage with some greats like Robert Klein and Fred Willard, and the wonderful Frances Conroy. Judith Light did a great job with her part, as well as all the supporting cast of mostly seasoned veteran character actors. Jennifer really shone as the quirky girl reminiscent of Diane Keaton and Mia Farrow from Woody's movies. Jill Clayburg is another who comes to mind. They all managed the fast pace of the dialog under the masterful direction of David Clary who kept things moving at a quick pace and pulled good performances from everyone, but mainly Jennifer who was one of the least experienced actors in it.

I will have to rent Jennifer's other movies to see if they are as enjoyable this one; I have only seen snippets of Kissing Jessica Stein, but based on those I think I will prefer this movie more.

I think Jennifer has a great career in writing once she finds her own style. She has done a great job here and I look forward to the films in her future. Woody won't be around forever and we will need a replacement. I recommend this film to anyone who loves Woody Allen movies, especially the older ones.

Loved this movie from start to finish. The script is intelligent and wonderfully humorous. In a day and age where comedy is stricken with a poverty of feeling and nuances, this movie is a brilliant example of how comedy could skillfully be presented with a generous dose of insight and wisdom.

The actors portraying Ira and Abby and the supporting cast are so genuine that it's hard to believe that they are unreal. I believe that we don't need any more sadness from the celluloid medium anymore than we already have in our lives, so I love happy movies. This movie is a celebration of happiness and delivers it in dollops.

I strongly recommend that you go and see it as soon as you can. It is bound to lift your spirits and fill you with joy!

This film, though far fetched and not even remotely credible, does have some funny moments and even a few life lessons along the way. The performances are surprisingly decent, given the not-so-decent script the performers had to contend with. Overall, this movie requires no rocket science degree to muddle through, but I did find it surprisingly entertaining.

The film plot starts out with a really fun premise....what if a couple meets and gets married, in just a couple days? One is spontaneous, and one is looking for a new way to live his life? But... things happen. People are people. Trust. Temptation. Suspicions. Jealousy. Weakness. The best part of this film are the co-stars who pop up in the background.. Jason Alexander, Judith Light, Fred Willard, Chris Parnell, Jon Hamm, Darrell Hammond. Interesting story, which is probably what drew the co-stars to the project. Directed by Bob Cary... has only directed a few things so far. Written by Jennifer Westfeldt, who also happens to be Abby in the story. Good stuff. Sounds like someone's life story.

This was one of the most entertaining films I have seen in a long time. I was looking forward to seeing this film by Jennifer Westfeldt since her "Kissing Jessica Stein" was such a delight. Everyone I know has said that was one of their favorite films.

"Ira and Abby" definitely doesn't disappoint. The casting is amazing with many top stars. Sometimes it appears that directors choose famous actors only for their celebrity. Not so in "Ira and Abby" since all of the actors give great performances and are not just caricatures. Jason Alexander, as one of the several psychiatrists in the movie, sheds his Seinfeld persona and truly gets into his character. Same with Robert Klein, who gives one of his best performances. Jennifer Westfeldt, as Abby, is refreshing and natural and is a joy to watch as she goes through myriad of emotions and transformations in the film. Kudos to the casting director for all of the excellent choices.

The writer and director have intelligently avoided showing us a serious subject as simply funny and without pain. There is a lot of humor but also a serious side with a twist ending that makes this film a must see for all ages. It is an original and refreshing take on modern romance.

Jennifer Westfeldt is just great in her role as Abby. But, her story and screenplay really make this a great film. Chris Messina is absolutely incredible in the lead role, which was certainly no piece of cake for any actor. But he pulls it off like a hot knife through butter. The two of them in this awesome script make for a great film. The supporting cast ain't chopped liver either. Judith Light and Robert Klein were a wonderful delight. This film has it all in terms of a meaningful story about love and romance done with great comedy and charm. It asks all the tough questions about marriage and answers them eloquently. The comedy is wonderfully done.

Anyone who's ever had a relationship, or wanted one, or ever thought about marriage or even divorce should see this film. The script moves along at a fast clip with witty dialog at every turn, like I haven't seen since His Girl Friday. The plot keeps twisting with surprises. Every other scene will have you laughing. This film takes a very serious look at the matters of love, marriage, and divorce and examines them deeply, while keeping it all on the lighter side. This is good old fashion romantic family comedy. They don't make them like this very often.

We saw the film at its LA Film Festival premier on June 23, and it is terrific! The film follows Ira (Chris Messina), a neurotic therapist-to-be through his chance meeting and resulting relationship with warm, free-spirited Abby (Jennifer Westfeldt). Messina's performance was convincing and great fun. Jennifer Westfeldt is more beautiful - and just as engaging - as she was in Kissing Jessica Stein. The combination of Judith Light and Robert Klein as Ira's parents was perfect. Klein's comedic timing is a great complement to Westfeldt's brilliant script. Fred Willard is Abby's dad, and his performance is terrific as well. This is the most intelligent and enjoyable romantic comedy that I have seen in years.

This movie was wonderful!!!! They did such a great job casting it too. Both of the main characters were outstanding in this movie! Truthfully I haven't seen any other movies with these actors in it, so I wasn't expecting a lot from them, but they were both perfect for this movie!! I expect to see a lot more of both of them because someone out there is gonna see this and want to put them in their movies. I laughed the entire time! Anyone who's ever been in a relationship, or even anyone who hasn't, will appreciate the humor in this one. It's all about love, marriage and what comes along with that (arguments, crazy in-laws etc).

Thanks to all involved in the making of this movie! I truly enjoyed it, this won't be the last time i watch it!

I saw this film at the LA film festival, and enjoyed it, even if it left me pretty much right away.

The plot is one we've seen before, almost a sitcom plot, outgoing girl meets nebbishy guy. It's kind of a cross between an older Woody Allen film and Darhma and Greg, but what makes it enjoyable is the cast.

The two leads are fine, but it's the supporting pros that steal the film with relish whenever they can. Robert Klein, Frances Conroy, Fred Willard all seem to be having a very fun time, and that translates right out into the audience.

I think it was shot on digital instead of film, which makes it kind of different to look at, but not unpleasant at all.

A fun date movie!

Somehow the filmmakers got lots of interesting and known but not quite star actors to show up. Everyone does a good job, particularly the actor playing Ira. Abby tends to thin whining. Real New York City locations (I live here).

But nothing is believable ever. Abby would not last one week in her job, which is selling gym memberships. There is no reason for her and Ira to get married after just meeting. He seems pretty normal and she seems rather obviously really high maintenance. It is no Bogart and Bacall kind of deal.

The film is sort of watchable minute to minute if you ignore the fact that none of it is justified in reality in any way, and never manages to cast the sort of spell a movie that isn't necessarily real but manages to establish a reality the viewer can go along with has to do.

I often found it often pretty easy to predict what was going to happen before it actually did.

Pretty much everyone in the film either is a $300 an hour therapist or going to a $300 an hour therapist every week. Ira's therapist parents seem to have never discussed anything with each other.

Maybe if you see it for fee on PBS like I did it might be worth it to see Jon Hamm with longer non-Mad Man hair and clothes looking like a regular shmo in a small part.

Overall, not really an indie. More of a superficial low budget conventional but subnormal movie.

I saw this film last month at the BJFF and it's terrific! It's like a Jewish "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" but with a lot more intelligence and insight. Jennifer Westfeldt wrote a great script and is so likable in the film. Robert Cary did a great job directing. Chris Messina is an exciting new comedic actor, he plays a spot on New York Jewish neurotic. I loved him on "Six Feet Under" as Ted too. Judith Light and Fred Williard also deliver great performances. There are great cameos from Jason Alexander and a bunch of the "SNL" guys. The audience loved the movie, it's got more laughs than any comedy i've seen in a long time. I hope it's going to be out in theaters soon as I need to send my friends, family and therapist to go see it.

Ira & Abby (2006)

What a special sweet film about two people who meet, fall in love (totally and instantly), and make a go of marriage.

Ira is played by Chris Messina who is disgruntled and ambitious, and he's really good at playing a mild and likable malcontent. He is going to therapy to find happiness, and getting nowhere.

Abby is played by Jennifer Westfeldt and she's a sensation, a total gem on screen, scintillating and in her warm oddball way, utterly lovable. She is the opposite, of course, as movies like this require, which means she has no ambition and is utterly happy all the time. She's so happy she infects Ira with happiness--how simple is that?--and the whole movie, as well. And the audience. It's a kind of wonder how it works on everything. In a bad mood? See this movie.

The best parts of the movie really show Abby's effect on Ira, on Ira's family, on strangers, and then, eventually, on herself as she has to face some unhappiness. An example scene will help--the couple are on the subway when a man with a gun sticks everyone up for money, maybe ten people. Abby sweetly (and without cornball excess, that's the wonder of it) asks him how much he needs. She'll give it to him. He's gradually mollified as she goes around collecting money from the other passengers and gets what he needs. He's suddenly willing to take a little less (this is the comedy, of course) and you see how in some bubble reality this kind of kindness might actually work. (She discovers him later with a job, and you sense that she saved him somehow by giving him that bit of sunshine.)

Okay, you might wonder how to build a whole movie on this. Well, there are complications with the parents, who have various kinds of relationship problems themselves. No clues here. Eventually it's a comic can of worms and all very fun. Perfect? No, but excellent overall. I could watch it again, which says a lot for this kind of lightweight fare. Westfeldt deserves it.

My husband picked this title out of a bin of discount DVDs, hoping for a light romantic comedy. What we got was not light, definitely not romantic, and while it had funny moments, it left a bitter taste in the mouth.

Ira is a young man with no direction in life. After 12 years of therapy, he cannot even decide what to order at a restaurant. Then he meets Abby, who seems to have all the answers. Or does she?

The movie seems to be trying to make a point about love vs. chemistry, sex vs. love, and whether marriage is viable in this day and age. The director cannot seem to decide whether this is a heartwarming love story or a satire about therapists. Excellent performances by a stellar cast do not make it any easier to figure out what the point might be.

There are a few magical moments, but they don't seem to go anywhere.

This film just made me cry. There are days were you feel you are very sentimental and things can get real close to you. I am glad I had one of these days because there is so much truth in this film.

Love or here marriage in particular is not supposed to be easy and some people even admit to difficulties. So don't feel bad if your love has seen some dirt. We are all just human beings and as Ira's dad says "You will never really know a person.". It sounded so sad, but hey I guess that's the way it is. But don't get me wrong there is true love out there and it is the case with Ira and Abby. I never felt so happy for two actors finding each other.^^

So this film is a must see, not matter if you are married or just a teen trying to find your way in life.

I didn't like romances.

In my opinion, Jennifer Westfeldt can do no wrong, as a writer/director and especially as an actress. Nothing but charisma. The girl of every neurotic guy's dreams.

I just saw this movie in full on cable... I caught the very end several months ago and didn't know what the hell was happening, but, seeing it from the beginning... definitely better.

The pace is just non-stop with this film... you can't catch your breath or think about what you just saw until the very end. That's SHARP writing and even sharper directing.... the acting just ties it all in.

Beautiful film, great story, and wonderful characters.

I'm ordering the DVD on Amazon right now.

Thanks, Jennifer, for everything you do in film (Kissing Jessica Stein was my introduction to this truly talented woman).