While Neil Simon is known for his comedies, such as "The Odd Couple", "Chapter Two" is a romance with little, if any, comedy. This is NOT a complaint...it's more letting you know what you're in for when you watch it. Additionally, like so many of his plays and films, it's based on events in his own life. For instance, "Barefoot in the Park" was based on his first marriage and "Chapter Two" is based on his divorce from his second marriage. Now here's the real odd part of this...the film stars Marsha Mason...the woman who was Simon's second wife! Talk about art imitating life!
When the story begins, George (James Caan) has just lost his wife. Her death, not surprisingly, weighs on him heavily. At about the same time, Jennie (Marsha Mason), has just divorced her husband. Soon, their friends and family are pushing them to begin dating once again. Eventually, George gets tired of his brother prodding him, so he calls one of these 'prospects' and soon he and Jennie are in love...VERY soon. In fact, after knowing each other only a short time, they marry! Plus, after marrying, it's obvious George is STILL pining for his dead wife. Is there any hope for this rebound marriage?
This film is more interesting than enjoyable to watch. As for my wife, she actually started yelling at the TV...telling George to STOP whining and commit to his marriage! I didn't feel quite as strongly, but it did muddle the romantic portion of the film quite a bit...and it certainly was NOT comedic in any way. Additionally, it was REALLY hard to care about any of the characters. Overall, well made and modestly interesting...but also unpleasant as well as a very unusual role for Caan.
