Michael Angelo Covino returns to the global spotlight with his latest directorial effort, Splitsville, a daring, emotionally complex relationship dramedy set to premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the prestigious Cannes Première section. A joint production between NEON and Topic Studios, the film will be released in theaters across the United States on August 22, offering an introspective yet comedic look at the unpredictable nature of love, loss, and modern relationships.
A Story of Marital Breakdown, Friendship, and the Consequences of Crossing Emotional Boundaries
At the center of Splitsville is Carey, a kind-hearted but emotionally vulnerable man portrayed by Kyle Marvin. Carey’s world is upended when his wife, Ashley, played by Adria Arjona, unexpectedly asks for a divorce. Seeking comfort and clarity, Carey turns to his closest friends, Julie and Paul, played by Dakota Johnson and Michael Angelo Covino, respectively. He hopes their support will help him navigate the emotional fallout.
Instead, he stumbles upon a revelation that shakes his perception of love and marriage. Julie and Paul’s seemingly perfect relationship is built on an open marriage. Carey is initially shocked, but his curiosity soon leads him into uncharted and morally ambiguous territory. When he crosses an emotional line, the delicate dynamic between the three friends begins to unravel, throwing all of their relationships into disarray. The film explores the fragility of trust, the allure of forbidden intimacy, and the modern quest for fulfillment amidst emotional chaos.
A Reunion of Acclaimed Filmmaking Partners Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin
Splitsville represents a reunion for Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, the creative team behind 2019’s acclaimed feature The Climb. That film earned praise for its innovative structure and heartfelt humor and also premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Their latest collaboration builds on that creative foundation while exploring even more intimate and emotionally fraught territory.
Covino and Marvin co-wrote the screenplay, showcasing their gift for crafting naturalistic dialogue and emotionally complex scenarios. Their partnership is marked by a distinctive storytelling voice that blends dark humor with a deep understanding of human vulnerability. In Splitsville, the duo explores interpersonal boundaries with sharp wit and compassion, presenting characters who feel achingly honest even as their lives spiral in unexpected directions.
A Talented Ensemble Cast Led by Dakota Johnson, Adria Arjona, and Kyle Marvin
The film boasts a dynamic and multi-layered cast. Dakota Johnson brings poise and emotional depth to the role of Julie, a woman balancing unconventional freedom with deep emotional loyalty. Johnson also serves as a producer on the film, further cementing her investment in its creative vision.
Adria Arjona, as Ashley, delivers a nuanced performance that captures the pain, courage, and confusion that accompany the end of a marriage. Kyle Marvin shines as Carey, whose descent into emotional turmoil is both humorous and heartbreaking. Director Michael Angelo Covino steps in front of the camera as well, portraying Paul with understated charm and complexity.
The supporting cast includes Nicholas Braun, O-T Fagbenle, David Castañeda, and Charlie Gillespie, each contributing energy and authenticity to a film centered on complicated emotional entanglements.
A Visually Rich and Intimately Directed Production Shot on 35mm Film
The film was shot entirely on 35mm in Montreal, lending it a warm, tactile visual quality that reflects the story’s emotional intimacy. Michael Angelo Covino’s direction embraces realism and intimacy, favoring long takes, emotionally charged blocking, and natural lighting to heighten the rawness of the performances.
Produced by Emily Korteweg, Covino, Kyle Marvin, Dakota Johnson, Ro Donnelley, and Samantha Racanelli, Splitsville reflects a strong spirit of collaboration behind the scenes. The film’s technical and artistic choices support its emotional core, making it a standout entry in the landscape of character-driven cinema.
Cannes Film Festival Debut Signals Awards Season Buzz and Anticipated Domestic Release
With its premiere scheduled for the Cannes Première section, Splitsville is already being viewed as one of the festival’s most buzzworthy films. Cannes has long been a launchpad for thoughtful and innovative films, and Covino’s return to the Croisette with this intimate yet provocative relationship drama positions Splitsville as a likely contender in the upcoming awards season.
Following its debut in France, the film will be released in theaters across the United States beginning August 22, distributed by NEON. Known for backing critically acclaimed titles such as Parasite, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, and Anatomy of a Fall, NEON’s involvement signals a high level of confidence in the film’s creative and commercial potential.
Splitsville opens exclusively in theaters nationwide on August 22. For further information and the latest updates, visit www.neonrated.com.
