“The Oranges” is a 2011 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Julian Farino and written by Ian Helfer and Jay Reiss. The film stars Hugh Laurie, Catherine Keener, Oliver Platt, Allison Janney, and Leighton Meester. The story revolves around two families who are longtime neighbors and friends in a suburban community in New Jersey.
The film begins with David Walling (Hugh Laurie) and his wife Paige (Catherine Keener) living a comfortable life in their suburban home, but their marriage is on the rocks. David’s relationship with their mutual friend Terry (Oliver Platt) further strains things when he confesses that he’s in love with Paige. Meanwhile, the Wallings’ daughter Vanessa (Alia Shawkat) has returned home from college and is struggling to find her way.
Everything changes when the Wallings’ neighbor, Nina (Leighton Meester), returns home after a long absence. Nina is the same age as Vanessa and has always been close with the Wallings, but now she and David begin a secret affair. As the relationships between all the characters become increasingly complicated, they must confront their feelings and face the consequences of their actions.
“The Oranges” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of the cast, particularly Laurie and Meester, and criticism for its uneven tone and lack of depth. Despite the mixed reception, the film offers a poignant look at the struggles of modern relationships and the consequences of infidelity.
Duration: 90 min.
