What could have been a stunning movie written into the annals of Hollywood's list of greatest acting matchups ultimately fell off the stage with a controversial plot. The prospect of Hathaway vs Chastain sharing scenes and playing off one another was a mouthwatering delight... and it WORKED! They were impeccable in their roles, neither trying to overshadow the other, and just letting their characters do the talking
But....... the questionable plot - not the story behind it - seemed a little questionable for the audience's attention. Here on IMDB and elsewhere there are comments about an AI written storyline. I tend to hear what they are saying. It is as if someone said "Lets get Anne and Jessica on the screen together!" and then discovered they don't really have a story to match the acting prowess of these two actors. So, they went to an AI site and asked for a plot. There is some belief in that, I guess
Don't get me wrong : the acting was on par with their best, the cinematography was serene, the editing was near faultless (a few goofs) and even the directing was as sound as we would expect. But the plot spoilt all that unfortunately. You were never sure of what was going to be on the next screen, which in a way makes for a good mystery movie, but this was not that movie
In the end Anne Hathaway kept her high acting composure and flirted with shows of her versatility in the ups and downs by blending these to perfection. Jessica Chastain has created more of a gung-ho actor after doing The Help with her portrayals in Zero Dark Thirty, Ava, The 355 etc. So she had to perhaps restrain her inner spirit a little here, but still masterfully done. If anything, I would make the split AH = 50.1% and JC = 49.9%
All in all, a good watch as long as you don't expect a girlie movie or any straightforward family story. Just watch the acting - you will not be disappointed.