The Story of My Wife

In 1940s Budapest, a brilliant but insecure Dutch sailor named Jacob makes a bet with his friends to marry the first woman who enters the cafe. That woman is the elegant and enigmatic Liv. As their marriage unfolds, Jacob becomes consumed by jealousy and suspicion, convinced Liv is having affairs. His obsession leads him on a journey of self-discovery and delusion across continents and through decades, as he grapples with his own insecurities and the complexities of love and trust.

The Story of My Wife received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised Ildikó Enyedi's ambitious direction and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Léa Seydoux. However, its lengthy runtime and deliberate pacing were noted by some as challenging, with opinions divided on whether the film's philosophical depth justified its extended duration. Audiences were similarly split, with some captivated by its emotional resonance and others finding it slow and meandering.

• Praised for its visual style and ambition.
• Léa Seydoux delivers a captivating and complex performance.
• The film's extended runtime and philosophical themes were divisive.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's artistic merit and Léa Seydoux's performance, with many finding it a thought-provoking exploration of love and jealousy. However, a significant portion of viewers found the movie to be overly long and ponderous, leading to a less enthusiastic reception from some.

Screened at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival in competition for the Palme d'Or.

The film is based on the 1942 novel of the same name by Hungarian author Milán Füst, which was his only novel.