Watch Mercury in Retrograde

Mercury in Retrograde is an independent dramedy film that explores the relationships between three young couples who spend a weekend together at a bed and breakfast in Michigan. The movie is directed by Jack C. Newell, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Shane Simmons. The film focuses on three couples: Alex and Dylan, Peggy and Wyatt, and Teresa and Andre. Alex and Dylan are a newlywed couple who are still adjusting to married life. Peggy and Wyatt have been together for a long time and are in a bit of a rut. Teresa and Andre are dating, but their relationship is complicated by the fact that Andre is still getting over his ex-girlfriend.

The three couples arrive separately at the bed and breakfast, and over the course of the weekend, they interact with each other and the owners of the bed and breakfast, Carol and Mark. Carol and Mark are an older couple who have been married for many years and are a good example of a stable and loving relationship.

As the weekend progresses, tensions and conflicts arise between the couples. Alex and Dylan struggle with communication and intimacy, Peggy and Wyatt confront their issues with trust and jealousy, and Teresa and Andre have to navigate their complicated feelings for each other.

Despite the conflicts, there are also moments of humor, tenderness, and revelations. The characters have conversations about love, sex, marriage, and commitment, and they learn things about themselves and each other.

The movie's title, Mercury in Retrograde, refers to the astrological phenomenon where Mercury appears to move backwards in the sky, which is often associated with communication and technology mishaps, misunderstandings, and delays. The characters mention this several times throughout the film, and it becomes a metaphor for the way their relationships are out of sync and need to be realigned.

One of the strengths of the movie is its ensemble cast, who deliver natural and nuanced performances. Alana Arenas plays Alex, a reserved woman who has trouble expressing her emotions. Roxane Mesquida plays Teresa, a Frenchwoman who struggles with being vulnerable. Najarra Townsend plays Peggy, a woman who is grappling with her identity and sexuality. Jack C. Newell, the director, also has a small role as Carol's son, who comes to visit them during the weekend.

The film's cinematography, by Stephanie Dufford, is also notable for its use of natural light and intimate framing, which enhances the sense of intimacy and realism.

Overall, Mercury in Retrograde is a thoughtful and engaging film that explores the complexities and challenges of modern relationships with honesty, humor, and sensitivity. It's a movie that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the ups and downs of love and commitment.

Mercury in Retrograde is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.