The Simian Line 2001

In the whimsical romantic comedy Simian Line, an eccentric palm reader throws a wrench into the lives of couples at an intimate dinner party with a troubling prediction: one partner will end their relationship before the year concludes. This intriguing premise unfolds within a star-studded ensemble featuring Lynn Redgrave, Jamey Sheridan, Harry Connick Jr., Cindy Crawford, Tyne Daly, William Hurt, Monica Keena, Dylan Bruno, Samantha Mathis, and Eric Stoltz.

The story follows a fateful October night when Katherine, portrayed by Lynn Redgrave, a middle-aged divorcee, and her younger boyfriend, Rick, played by Harry Connick Jr., host a festive dinner for two other couples: Marta, brought to life by Monica Keena, and Billy, played by Dylan Bruno, as well as Sandra, depicted by Cindy Crawford, and Paul, characterized by Jamey Sheridan. What begins as a joyful gathering suddenly shifts as Rick’s unexpected guest, Arnita, a quirky palm-reader played by Tyne Daly, disrupts the harmony with her ominous foretelling.

The atmosphere becomes charged with uncertainty as the prediction looms over their evening. Adding to the complexity are two ghostly figures—spirits Edward, portrayed by William Hurt, and Mae, played by Samantha Mathis. Edward is Katherine’s deceased great-grandfather, who cannot leave his beloved home without his wife by his side. Meanwhile, Mae brings a lively, flirtatious energy as a socialite from the 1920s, unwilling to embrace her eternal rest.

As autumn transitions into winter, the two spirits observe the unraveling relationships around them with a mix of humor and melancholy. Marta and Billy, both ambitious musicians, confront the unexpected reality of parenthood, while Sandra and Paul face challenges tied to unfulfilled dreams and financial strife. Meanwhile, Katherine grows increasingly concerned about Rick’s affections, questioning his loyalty as she perceives his interest in younger women.

With the New Year approaching and relationships intertwining like the changing seasons, the couples’ destinies hinge on choices made amidst their doubts and fears, reminding us that ultimately, their futures rest quite literally in the palm of their hands. Will they be able to navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery before the year runs out?