A tale of infidelity and its lethal consequences, "Deep Water", based on the novel by the equally interesting and unsettling Patricia Highsmith is a Decadent take on modern relationships. Ben Affleck reprises his "Gone Girl" role as the put upon husband who capitalizes the B on the beta male. Amid the torrent of pain and tension he resolves his dilemma in the only way his emasculated and hopeless state can. Slow going in a glacial, Euro non-American pace the dead spaces peppered throughout the film are alleviated by the decent acting and aura of heavy, sombre slight suspense as the gist of the plot is revealed halfway through. Ben Affleck is a natural as his washed-up alcoholic look puts the bathos in his character although like many films of his in recent times he looks like he's going through the motions. Perhaps it's time to quit acting or at least take a break. Ana de Armas is as usual nice eye candy but is miscast. She looks too nice to play the loose irresponsible inhabitant of a kennel to be convincing. The real star is the little girl who portrays the unhappy couple's daughter who provides most of the spunk and energy this sedate film has. The realist style used is what keeps the viewer glued from the conversations to the sex scenes the authenticity giving the flick a rawness and immediacy that makes up for the flaws. While no classic or standout this is one contemporary journey that takes one deep into the nature and state of modern society and the dehumanization of people in an age of isolation and indifference.
