The performances are dead-on, if sometimes a little overplayed in certain scenes. Barrett is probably the most obvious offender, but given a reason (a suspicious pregnant woman is probably the most dangerous being on the planet). But I just loved the perfomances by Danner and Wilkinson, which plays more subtle and sweeter, even as their marriage starts running into a dark grey area. And I admit that Wilkinson's character gives probably the most important piece of advise that any man should be told. "Any fool can love. It's how you treat those you love that matters". I admit it, I wished someone would have told me that when I was younger. Actor Tony Goldwyn directs this film with a directness that helps open up the major performances. He doesn't break scenes up uneccessarily and has a pretty good idea of pacing. And with a top-notch cast and a good script, he kept the film looking great without being distracting. I must make mention of Paul Haggis' script (with dialogue rewrites from Braff). This has to be his least stiff writing job I have seen from him. I also am thankful that while it still played to some stereotypes, that he didn't allow the story to follow formula. Again, working from a previous film might have helped in that department, but I also think it's to a writer's credit as well. All in all, this is by far the best date movie this year. Not so much because it gives you a syrupish love story, but asks hard questions and makes both sides think about what they would do if they were in that position. I think the answer would scare them. It certainly did me.