Tayarisha Poe’s “The Young Wife” is a psychedelic fever dream of a wedding party, where neon eye shadow and pastel outfits set the stage for a tale as old as time: cold feet before marriage.
In this dramedy, Celestina (Kiersey Clemons) is a burned-out corporate lackey who quits her job days before marrying River (Leon Bridges), a lawyer-turned-cupcake-baker. As she navigates her quirky family and friends at a countryside gathering, she grapples with existential questions about marriage and career choices.
The film’s cacophony of voices and vibrant visuals create a storm of light, color, and sound, with style sometimes overpowering substance. However, Poe’s keen eye for composition and Clemons’s vivacious screen presence shine through.
“The Young Wife” is a wild ride of talk about death, weed, and capitalism’s disappointments, rated R for its bold themes. Running time is 1 hour and 37 minutes, available in theaters and on major platforms for rent or purchase.
