Hollywood is kicking off September 2025 with a vibrant lineup of theatrical releases, and one film stealing the spotlight is Splitsville, a sharp romantic comedy-drama that hits theaters today, September 5, 2025. Directed by Michael Angelo Covino and co-written with Kyle Marvin, this film promises a fresh take on modern relationships, blending humor, heart, and a touch of chaos. After premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Splitsville is poised to captivate audiences with its stellar cast and bold storytelling. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting release and why it’s a must-watch this weekend.
A Modern Take on Love and Friendship
Splitsville dives into the complexities of relationships with a story centered on Carey (Kyle Marvin), whose world is turned upside down when his wife, Ashley (Adria Arjona), asks for a divorce just 14 months into their marriage. Devastated, Carey seeks solace from his friends, Julie (Dakota Johnson) and Paul (Michael Angelo Covino), a couple who share that their secret to a happy marriage is an open relationship. What starts as a supportive gesture spirals into chaos when Carey crosses boundaries, sleeping with Julie and igniting tensions that threaten to unravel both couples’ bonds.
The film, described as a “reinvigorated throwback” to screwball comedies, tackles contemporary themes like non-monogamy with a playful yet poignant lens. Critics have praised its blend of sharp humor and raw emotional depth, earning it a solid 75% on Rotten Tomatoes following its Cannes debut. The chemistry between the leads—Dakota Johnson, Adria Arjona, Kyle Marvin, Nicholas Braun, David Castañeda, and O-T Fagbenle—adds vibrancy to the narrative, making Splitsville a standout in this week’s releases.
Behind the Scenes: A Talented Team
Directed by Michael Angelo Covino, Splitsville marks his sophomore feature following the critically acclaimed The Climb (2019), which also explored strained relationships with a comedic twist. Covino, who co-wrote the screenplay with Kyle Marvin, brings a dynamic visual style to the film, highlighted by cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra’s smooth long takes and editor Sara Shaw’s crisp pacing. A particularly memorable action sequence—a chaotic fight between Carey and Paul—has been lauded as one of the year’s best, blending humor with raw intensity.
The film is produced by Neon and Topic Studios, reuniting the team behind Infinity Pool. Producers include Emily Korteweg, Ryan Heller, Jeff Deutchman, Dakota Johnson, Ro Donnelly, and Samantha Racanelli, with Adria Arjona and Paul Barbeau serving as executive producers. The soundtrack, composed by Dabney Morris and David Wingo, complements the film’s emotional and comedic beats, enhancing its vibrant energy.
Why Splitsville Stands Out
Splitsville arrives at a time when conversations about non-traditional relationships are gaining mainstream traction, making its exploration of open marriages timely and relevant. Unlike typical rom-coms, the film doesn’t shy away from the messiness of human connections, offering a narrative that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its 104-minute runtime and R rating (for language, sexual content, and graphic nudity) ensure a bold, unfiltered take on love and betrayal.
The ensemble cast is a major draw. Dakota Johnson, known for Madame Web and Materialists, delivers a nuanced performance as Julie, while Adria Arjona (Andor, Hit Man) shines as Ashley, bringing depth to a character navigating personal upheaval. Kyle Marvin and Michael Angelo Covino, real-life friends, infuse their roles with authentic camaraderie, while Nicholas Braun (Succession) and David Castañeda (The Umbrella Academy) add layers to the supporting cast.
Other Hollywood Releases This Week
While Splitsville takes center stage, it’s joined by other notable releases on September 5, 2025:
- The Conjuring: Last Rites: The final chapter of the beloved horror franchise, directed by Michael Chaves, sees Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return as Ed and Lorraine Warren for their most chilling case yet, the Smurl haunting. New cast members Mia Tomlinson and Ben Hardy add fresh energy to this spooky saga.
- Stan the Man: A drama about an alcoholic football coach (Angus Benfield) seeking redemption by coaching a high school team, offering a heartfelt story of second chances.
- A Savage Art: The Life & Cartoons of Pat Oliphant: A documentary exploring the legacy of the renowned political cartoonist, blending history and art.
Where to Watch and What to Expect
Splitsville is now playing in theaters nationwide, distributed by Neon. Check platforms like Fandango or BookMyShow for showtimes and tickets near you. With its Cannes pedigree and strong critical reception, the film is a hot contender for awards season buzz, particularly for its ensemble cast and innovative cinematography. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, dramas, or films that push boundaries, Splitsville offers a cinematic experience that’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.
For those seeking a break from horror or action-heavy releases, Splitsville delivers a refreshing dose of humor and humanity. Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and dive into this chaotic, charming exploration of love and loyalty hitting theaters today, September 5, 2025.
