MY WIFE’S AFFAIR

Three people in a previously happy marriage, but why?

Woodruff (Someone Else’s Child, 2000) fails to offer a convincing explanation for the scenario that underpins her entire slender story. Georgie Connolly and Peter Martin have recently relocated to London with their three young sons, an especially happy move for aspiring actor Georgie, who has not enjoyed the preceding few years spent living in suburban New Jersey. When the couple met, Peter hoped to be a novelist but now he’s a successful business journalist and his posting to England offers a comfortable fresh start. An acting job comes up—a one-woman show based on the life of historical figure Dora Jordan, 18th-century mother/actor/mistress/celebrity/survivor, “the Angelina Jolie of her time.” Georgie, clearly identifying with aspects of Dora, becomes obsessed with the part and lands the role. After a successful London run, the production heads out of town for regional performances and Georgie starts sleeping with its playwright, Piers. When Peter discovers the adultery, the couple struggles to find a way forward. Narrated by Peter in a melancholy voice, the tale seems unlikely to have a happy outcome although Woodruff has a late surprise up her sleeve.

A slight story, thinly characterized, but narrated with some poise.