Better Living through Chemistry

A peculiar take on suburban rebellion starring Sam Rockwell as Doug, a frustrated pharmacist who enters a dangerous world of sex, drugs and murder when he meets bored housewife Elizabeth (Olivia Wilde). Unfolding like a vapid version of American Beauty, the script is funny in places but lacks edge (the central pair's sloppy murder plot) or depth (the reasons for Doug's transformation). Left with obvious dialogue and little nuance, Rockwell does his best with what he's given, and provides many of the film's highlights. Working well both as a buttoned down suburbanite and pill-popping delinquent, he also has capable co-stars in Michelle Monaghan (as Doug's sniping other half) and Wilde's femme fatale, relishing her bad-girl persona. With a protracted ending that wraps everything up in a neat, disappointing bow, it's a dark comedy that, much like its lead character, could do with taking a few more risks.