112 Weddings

Like more than one filmmaker, eminent documentarian Doug Block shot wedding videos on the side in order to make a living. In this joint HBO/ZFF/BBC documentary, Block reflects on several of the 100-plus ceremonies that he filmed, investigating what ensued after the honeymoons. Nine couples--including a few who divorced--agreed to speak about their lives and offer their opinions on married life. Much is familiar: nuptial relationships are hard work, having children changes everything, and the fairy-tale glow of the ceremony soon fades. Some question whether, aside from economic benefits, marriage has any relevance left (although, in the course of this odyssey, a long-cohabiting couple decide to have a belated wedding anyway). Block, who previously explored his own family's dark corners in 51 Birch Street and The Kids Grow Up, filmed many of the weddings within the New York area's Jewish community (rabbi and author Jonathan Blake is an interviewee). A film about a perennially popular subject from an acclaimed nonfiction filmmaker, this is recommended. (C. Cassady)