Tanya Batson-Savage, Freelance Writer

When Michael (Zach Braff, left) begins to wonder if there will be no surprises left in his life now that he's turning 30, he begins an affair with Kim (Rachel Bilson), who has no idea that he's about to start a life with another woman in 'The Last Kiss'. - Contributed

The Last Kiss, directed by Tony Goldwyn, is an interestingly told movie about commitment and much of the trauma, drama, tears, fears, mistakes and love that go into it. The story is touching, yet funny; thoughtful, but with a light enough hand to make it worthwhile and enjoyable.

The movie successfully explores the emotions that fuel the rifts that crop up in relationships as partners drift apart, or never get as close as they had imagined when they had first been in the throes of love. As such, the movie dives into relationships to highlight that more than love is needed for them to survive.

The film surrounds the lives of a committed couple, Michael and Jenna, whose relationship becomes tested when the feelings of complacency and security become too much for Michael. Though he seems to have found the perfect woman - she is mature, intelligent and beautiful - he is suffering from an extreme case of 'dog-in-the-manger-itis', and so finds that he needs more.

Central couple

Though Michael and Jenna are the central couple the plot also takes in glimpses of the lives of their friends, allowing for a textured, multi-layered look at relationships.

Along with Jenna and Michael, who seem about to move into a greater state of permanency, the film also explores the relationships between Jenna's parents and Michael's friends and their respective girlfriends, allowing it to look at a lengthy marriage, a serial bachelor and a young married couple.

The movie works with a good ensemble cast, each member carrying their weight and turning in good performances, as its lack of superstar power is a part of its strength. Zach Braff (Scrubs) and Jacinda Barrett play the lead couple, Michael and Jenna. Braff does a good job playing the confused (and decidedly stupid) Michael, a role which is not that far-fetched from his stint on Scrubs.

Blythe Danner (Anna) is stately and engaging, while Tom Wilkinson is convincing as her all-too-reserved husband Stephen. The film also features Casey Affleck, Eric Christian Olsen and Rachel Bilson.

With the exception of Anna (Jenna's mother) the story is largely told from the male perspective, so that it is in large part a guy's story but without bluster, crotch grabbing and chest thumping to distract from the fact that men have feelings too.

Director Tony Goldwyn has had a far longer career in acting and much of his previous directing has gone into television series. Even so, he handles the film well, allowing the characters to unfold as the story develops.

Translation

The Last Kiss is based on the 2001 Italian film L'Utimo Bacio, which was written and directed by Gabriele Muccino. Paul Haggis' (Crash and Million Dollar Baby) pen is responsible for this translation to an American tale.

Though it deals with love, and has more than a few comical moments, The Last Kiss is by no means a romantic comedy. Instead, it would more aptly be described as a relationship dramedy. It is not the deepest look at romance ever created, but it is at least a thoughtful, lasting chups.