In an exclusive interview with ComingSoon?s Tyler Treese, Patrick Wilson, the star of Millers in Marriage, discussed the intricacies of the family drama. He shared insights about collaborating with director Edward Burns, portraying a complex and flawed character, and much more. The film is currently available in theaters and can be streamed digitally starting today, February 21, 2025.

The official synopsis of Millers in Marriage reveals a compelling narrative: ?A tale of three middle-aged married couples grappling with universal questions about marriage and fidelity, the ups and downs of professional success and failure, and the challenging journey towards rediscovering a meaningful second act in life.?

Tyler Treese: Millers in Marriage presents an ambitious narrative structure that examines three distinct marriages. It reminds me of Woody Allen’s classic, Hannah and Her Sisters. What captivated you about this project?

Patrick Wilson: My history with Ed Burns goes back nearly two decades, and collaborating with him has always been a rewarding experience. Even after all these years, reconnecting with him feels effortless. When he reaches out, it?s hard to say no. He has a unique ability to craft honest, relatable stories that resonate deeply. This film continues that tradition, focusing on the complexities of life and relationships. I?ve been on the lookout for narratives that reflect the realities of people in their late forties or fifties, which are often explored more in television than film. This project stood out as an authentic exploration of those themes, making it an easy decision to join the cast.

You mentioned your previous work with Ed. How have you seen his evolution as a director over the years? What qualities stand out to you about his directorial style?

Ed?s growth as a filmmaker is evident in his relaxed yet effective approach. He maintains a calm demeanor on set, exuding confidence and allowing the creative process to unfold naturally. He knows what he wants but never imposes his vision on actors. Instead, he fosters a collaborative atmosphere where ideas can flow freely. His ability to assemble a talented team, including producers like Aaron Lubin and skilled cinematographers, creates a seamless and dynamic shooting environment. This fluidity makes it easier for actors to explore their characters, and he encourages experimentation while providing guidance when necessary, resulting in an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

It?s refreshing to work with someone who creates a pressure-free atmosphere, encouraging creativity without being overly controlling. This approach is particularly beneficial for seasoned actors, allowing them to engage fully in their roles without feeling constrained.

One fascinating aspect of Millers in Marriage is the portrayal of characters with significant flaws. Your character can come across as quite unlikable. What was your approach to ensure that this complexity didn’t veer into one-dimensionality, especially since real people can be difficult?

This role presented a unique challenge for me. While I?ve played antagonistic characters before, they often have clearly defined villainous traits. In contrast, my character in this film isn?t inherently evil; he?s simply at a low point in his life. This complexity attracted me to the role. When Ed asked me which character I wanted to portray, I immediately expressed interest in playing Scott, as I rarely get to portray such a flawed and troubled individual. It was crucial to navigate this character?s darker moments without reducing him to a caricature. There are real people who can be unpleasant, and embracing that aspect of the character was essential for authenticity.

Though it was a challenging portrayal, it was also rewarding to explore these dynamics. My character serves as a counterbalance to Benjamin Bratt‘s character, and it?s essential for each actor to fully commit to their role to create a cohesive narrative. This commitment allows the story to unfold seamlessly, showcasing the intricate interconnections between the characters.

Regarding your chemistry with Gretchen Mol, it?s clear that the relationship is strained. How did you cultivate that chemistry, given that it involves conflict rather than harmony?

Working with Gretchen was a pleasure. Her natural warmth creates a sense of safety on set, which is invaluable when portraying a contentious relationship. Additionally, Ed Burns? ability to foster camaraderie among the cast enhances the collaborative atmosphere. His easygoing nature encourages everyone to connect, allowing us to create a sense of comfort on set despite the tension in the scenes. When you establish a solid rapport with your co-stars, it becomes easier to portray conflict authentically. After a scene where emotions run high, we can easily return to being friends once “cut” is called. This dynamic is essential for maintaining a positive working environment, making it easier to channel the necessary energy for intense scenes.

Reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Hard Candy, how do you feel about that film and your collaboration with Elliot Page?

Looking back on Hard Candy, I?m proud of the work we did. During the pandemic, there were attempts to revisit the film through virtual script read-throughs, which reminded me of the intense yet rewarding experience of shooting it. We completed filming in just 18-19 days, which made it a unique and exhilarating project. I continue to hear from fans who appreciate the film, and while I?m flattered, I often joke that their fondness for it says a lot about them. Despite the passage of time, I believe the film remains relevant and impactful, holding up well against contemporary standards, and I cherish the performances we delivered.

I thoroughly enjoyed your directorial debut, Insidious: The Red Door, particularly the strong family drama woven into the horror elements. Are you interested in directing more projects in the future?

Absolutely! I?m actively seeking new directing opportunities. I?ve been fortunate to have several projects presented to me, but I?m still searching for the perfect fit. There are a few ideas I?m particularly passionate about that lie outside the horror genre, and I?m eager to bring them to life. The process of directing has been exhilarating, and I often find myself contemplating what my next directorial venture will be. It?s an exciting time for me creatively, and I?m looking forward to what?s next!

Thanks to Patrick Wilson for taking the time to share insights about Millers in Marriage.