New Movies: You, Me & Her (2023) by Dan Levy Dagerman: Rekindling the Flame with an Unexpected Spark

Core Summary: A Married Couple Explores Openness and Identity Through a Threesome Fantasy

"You, Me & Her" (2023) is an intimate and modern romantic comedy-drama directed by Dan Levy Dagerman and written by, and starring, Selina Ringel. The film explores the complexities of a long-term marriage that has settled into a routine after parenthood. Mags (Selina Ringel) and Ash (Ritesh Rajan), yearning to rediscover themselves and their connection, embark on a vacation to Mexico. There, Mags develops an unexpected and intense chemistry with Angela (Sydney Park), a free-spirited digital nomad. Intrigued, and hoping to reignite their own spark, Ash encourages the flirtation, leading the couple to contemplate a threesome. However, the film transcends a simple sexual premise, delving into the emotional intricacies, individual desires, and unspoken aspects of identity that surface as Mags confronts new feelings and a previously unacknowledged part of her sexuality.

Snapshot: Vacation Fantasy, Unexpected Chemistry, and a Marriage's New Chapter

A "chronically married" couple's vacation to rekindle their romance takes an unforeseen turn when the wife develops intense chemistry with another woman, leading them to explore the boundaries of their relationship and her own fluid sexuality.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt20917826/

Link Review: https://variety.com/2025/film/reviews/you-me-and-her-review-1236303155/

About movie: https://www.ymhmovie.com/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/you-me-and-her-2023 (US)

Deep Dive: The Nuances of Desire and Partnership in the Modern Age

"You, Me & Her" has been noted for its contemporary and candid approach to relationship dynamics, drawing from personal experience.

• Plot: Mags and Ash are a married couple whose relationship has become strained by the demands of parenthood and the passage of time. Their attempts to reignite their connection often devolve into arguments and compromises. Hoping for a fresh start, they take their first child-free vacation to San Pancho, Mexico. It's during this trip that Mags encounters Angela, a charismatic and adventurous yoga instructor/digital nomad. The chemistry between Mags and Angela is immediate and palpable, much to Ash's initial surprise, but also, surprisingly, his intrigue. Believing this new dynamic could be the spark their marriage needs, Ash encourages Mags' flirtation with Angela, entertaining the idea of a threesome. The film then meticulously explores the emotional complexities of this situation, moving beyond the superficiality of a sexual fantasy to delve into how Mags' interaction with Angela forces her to confront aspects of her own identity and sexuality she may have suppressed or been unaware of. The narrative explores themes of honesty, curiosity, and adaptation within a committed partnership, portraying the challenges and possibilities when relationships evolve in unexpected ways. It's a story of rediscovery—both individual and as a couple—and the journey towards genuine intimacy. The film is also noted for its humor, often derived from supporting characters and the couple's relatable struggles.

• Characters & Cast:

  • Selina Ringel as Mags: The wife who discovers new facets of her identity and desires during the vacation. Ringel also wrote the screenplay, bringing a deeply personal touch to the character.

  • Ritesh Rajan as Ash: The husband who, despite his own insecurities, encourages his wife's exploration in hopes of revitalizing their marriage.

  • Sydney Park as Angela: The free-spirited digital nomad whose charisma sparks Mags' unexpected chemistry. Angela is portrayed as empathetic and mindful of Ash's comfort.

  • Hernán Mendoza as Mags' Dad: Adds another layer of personal and professional pressure on Mags, highlighting her journey of self-reconnection.

  • Marianna Burelli as Faviola & Roberto Aguire as Manolo: A wilder couple the protagonists befriend on their trip, providing comedic and contrasting elements.

  • Graham Sibley as Ben & Anna Campbell as Tiffany: Long-time, perhaps clueless, friends who offer a different perspective on marriage.

• Genre and Style: "You, Me & Her" is primarily a Romantic Comedy-Drama. Its style is characterized by:

  • Contemporary & Relatable: It addresses modern relationship issues with an honest, often humorous, and empathetic tone.

  • Personal & Authentic: Rooted in the real-life experiences of the married director and writer-star, lending it a strong sense of authenticity.

  • Exploration of Fluidity: It delves into the fluidity of sexuality and desire in a nuanced manner, especially through Mags' journey.

  • Conversational & Character-Driven: Relies heavily on dialogue and the internal/external struggles of its characters to drive the narrative.

  • Comedic Elements: Incorporates situational and character-based humor, often described as having a "sitcom" quality.

Director's Lens: Dan Levy Dagerman's Intimate and Collaborative Vision

Dan Levy Dagerman is an American director and producer who has frequently collaborated with his wife, Selina Ringel (writer and star of "You, Me & Her"). Their partnership is central to the film's intimate and authentic feel.

• Personal Storytelling: Dagerman and Ringel intentionally adapted a deeply personal experience into the film, providing a unique perspective on their own marital journey and the unexpected paths love can take. This commitment to personal truth imbues the film with sincerity.

• Focus on Relationships: His directorial style often delves into the intricacies of human relationships, with a particular interest in the challenges and evolution of committed partnerships.

• Collaborative Process: Dagerman has spoken openly about the "high stakes" but rewarding nature of working with his spouse, emphasizing their complementary strengths in writing and editing to ensure a balanced dual perspective in the film.

• Independent Filmmaking Ethos: As independent filmmakers, they pour significant personal investment into their projects, aiming for authenticity and emotional resonance over commercial scale.

Central Themes: Marriage & Routine, Sexual & Emotional Rediscovery, Boundaries & Consent, Communication in Relationships, and The Fluidity of Desire

• Marriage & Routine: Explores the challenges of maintaining excitement and connection in long-term relationships, especially after major life changes like parenthood.

• Sexual & Emotional Rediscovery: Focuses on the protagonists' journeys of finding new dimensions of their individual and shared desires.

• Boundaries & Consent: Navigates the delicate dynamics of considering a polyamorous experience, emphasizing the importance of open communication and mutual comfort.

• Communication in Relationships: Highlights how confronting uncomfortable truths and exploring desires (both individual and shared) can lead to deeper intimacy or expose existing cracks.

• The Fluidity of Desire: Challenges conventional notions of sexuality by showing Mags' unexpected attraction and her journey of embracing a more fluid understanding of her own desires.

Why It Shines: A Fresh, Honest, and Relatable Look at Modern Marriage

• Authentic and Personal: The film's basis in the real-life experiences of the creative team lends it a rare and compelling honesty.

• Nuanced Portrayal of Openness: It delves into the complex emotional landscape of considering a non-monogamous experience without sensationalism, focusing on the human elements.

• Strong Lead Performances: Selina Ringel and Ritesh Rajan deliver believable and sympathetic portrayals of a couple navigating a challenging new chapter. Sydney Park is also praised for her captivating role.

• Timely and Relevant: It addresses contemporary relationship issues that many couples face, particularly the desire for reinvention and the evolving understanding of sexuality.

• Balanced Tone: Successfully blends humor and drama, keeping the narrative engaging while exploring sensitive topics.

Dan Levy Dagerman's 2023 film, You, Me & Her, is a romantic comedy-drama that delves into the complexities of modern marriage, self-discovery, and the unconventional paths relationships can take. The film centers on Mags (played by Selina Ringel, who also wrote the screenplay) and Ash (Ritesh Rajan), a chronically married couple whose relationship has grown stagnant after a decade and becoming parents. On their first post-baby vacation to Mexico, they encounter a free-spirited digital nomad named Angela (Sydney Park), who sparks unexpected feelings in Mags, particularly a long-suppressed same-sex attraction. This encounter leads the couple to flirt with the idea of a threesome as a way to rediscover themselves and reignite their marriage, navigating both humorous and challenging situations.

Awards & Nominations: A Fresh Take Recognized on the Indie Scene

As an independent romantic comedy-drama, You, Me & Her has primarily garnered recognition within the independent film circuit and for its contemporary themes rather than major mainstream awards.

While specific extensive award lists are not widely publicized for smaller independent films, its presence at festivals and its theatrical release (with a notable Valentine's Day 2025 release in the US) suggest it has gained traction. The film's unique and "freshly contemporary" take on navigating modern marriage, open relationships, and sexual exploration has likely been highlighted in festival selections and independent film awards that celebrate innovative storytelling and diverse perspectives. The collaborative effort between director Dan Levy Dagerman and writer/lead actress Selina Ringel (who are also real-life partners) often resonates with festival juries and audiences, recognizing the personal touch and authenticity they bring to the project.

Critics' Reception: Mixed Yet Praised for Honesty and Relatability

Critics have offered a mixed to positive reception for You, Me & Her, often appreciating its honest and empathetic portrayal of marital struggles and sexual exploration, while some found its execution uneven.

• Screen Rant: This review was "blown away" by the film's "freshly contemporary & relatable take on navigating marriage today." It praises the film for subverting heteronormative stereotypes and for not taking a moral stance on monogamy. It highlights Mags' journey of sexual exploration as well as Ash's parallel path of self-discovery, finding both characters equally compelling and empathetic. The "easy rhythm to the marital highs and lows" and the "kernel of love, trust, and a shared language" under the surface are commended. Despite the final act beginning to "drag," the review praises the film's "clarity of its vision" and its natural depiction of sexual exploration.

• Sarah G. Vincent Views: This review is more critical, calling the film "a tragedy" because Mags seemingly doesn't realize she deserves better than Ash. It criticizes Ash as a "massive annoying killjoy" and finds Angela to be a "variation of the manic pixie chick" whose interest in the couple seems a "stretch." The review suggests the film feels like a "dude fantasy" of watching lesbians, and that it is "plagued with more telling than showing." It finds the humor "too heavy-handed" and the overall narrative structure flawed, arguing the marriage wasn't "worth saving." However, it acknowledges the film as "pretty" with "vibrant colors" and that the "real story was about Mags reconnecting with her roots and rediscovering the self that got lost."

• Roger https://www.google.com/search?q=Ebert.com (Jay S. Jacobs): This review expresses disappointment that an "interesting premise" failed in execution. It criticizes the film for keeping the threesome idea "on a surface level" and for treating Angela "simply a tool of their marriage's salvation." It finds the narrative "relentlessly predictable" and the jokes "stale" and "heavy-handed." While acknowledging the film "looks like a love letter to Mexico," it ultimately finds the characters "empty and uncompelling."

• The Film Freak: This review finds the film's beginning problematic, with characters built "through a checklist." It describes Mags and Ash as "utter failures of their own system" and the story as "a bit predictable." It notes that the film "manipulates a rushed third act so that all pieces fit, all confessions are made, and everyone ends up together," leading to a "simple note."

• GhMovieFreak: This review calls You, Me & Her a "refreshing exploration of love, laughter and unconventional solutions." It praises the film's character development, its balance between drama and comedy, and the believable on-screen chemistry of the main cast. It also commends the film for addressing "adult themes without resorting to gratuitous content," making it "accessible for a family audience."

Overall, critics have a polarizing view of You, Me & Her. While many appreciate its attempt to offer a contemporary and nuanced look at marital dynamics, sexual discovery, and the idea of open relationships, some found its execution flawed, particularly regarding character depth, narrative consistency, and comedic timing. The film is largely seen as an ambitious independent effort, with praise often directed at the authentic performances of the lead actors and its willingness to tackle complex relationship themes.

Reviews: Audiences Divided on Relatability and Narrative Depth

Audience reactions to You, Me & Her are likely to reflect the mixed critical reception, with some viewers finding it a relatable and honest portrayal of marital struggles and sexual exploration, while others may find its narrative choices and character developments less convincing.

• Relatability of Marital Doldrums: Many viewers, particularly those in long-term relationships or marriages, will likely connect with the initial portrayal of Mags and Ash's struggles with routine, arguments, and a loss of spark. The film's exploration of finding "avenues of self-expression and growth within a committed relationship" will resonate with those who have experienced similar phases.

• Sexual Exploration as a Catalyst: The central premise of exploring a threesome will undoubtedly draw an audience interested in non-monogamy or sexual liberation within a relationship context. Viewers who appreciate films that delve into "suppressed urges" and challenge "conventional ideals" will find this aspect compelling. Selina Ringel's portrayal of Mags' sexual awakening, particularly her same-sex attraction, is likely to be a significant point of discussion and connection for some.

• Mixed Reactions to Character Portrayals: Some audiences might find Mags and Ash's characters, especially Ash's "apathetic and responsibility-averse" demeanor, frustrating or unbelievable. The portrayal of Angela, the third party, as potentially more of a "plot device" than a fully fleshed-out character could also be a point of contention for viewers who prefer more agency and emotional closure for all characters involved in a polyamorous dynamic.

• Humor and Pacing: The film's comedic elements, which some critics found "heavy-handed" or "stale," might land differently with various audience members. The pacing, particularly in the final act, which some described as "dragging," could also impact overall enjoyment, especially for viewers expecting a faster-paced romantic comedy.

• Authenticity and Personal Story: Knowing that the film is inspired by director Dan Levy Dagerman and writer/lead actress Selina Ringel's real-life experiences will add a layer of authenticity for many viewers, making them more invested in the couple's journey to "stay honest and curious about each other in a long term committed relationship."

Overall, You, Me & Her is likely to spark conversations among audiences about modern relationships, sexual identity, and marital evolution. While some viewers may find it a refreshing and honest take, others might be less convinced by its narrative choices and character depth. It's a film that aims to be a "hyperbole of our lives," and how much that hyperbole resonates will depend heavily on individual viewer expectations and experiences.

Box Office Performance: Independent Release with Digital Focus

As an independent film with a reported budget of $500,000, "You, Me & Her" is not expected to be a blockbuster, but rather aims for success through critical acclaim, festival recognition, and digital/VOD distribution.

• Limited Theatrical Release: It had a limited theatrical release in the US on February 14, 2025, suggesting a strategy of targeted screenings to build buzz.

• Digital Distribution: Its distribution through the Fithian Group (Attend) points to a strong focus on digital and VOD platforms, which will be crucial for its wider reach and revenue generation.

• Long-Term Play: Its personal nature and relevant themes may give it a longer shelf life on streaming services, attracting an audience over time.

Production Notes: A Passion Project Born from Personal Experience

• Directed by: Dan Levy Dagerman

• Written by: Selina Ringel

• Main Cast: Selina Ringel (Mags), Ritesh Rajan (Ash), Sydney Park (Angela), Hernán Mendoza (Mags' Dad), Marianna Burelli (Faviola), Roberto Aguire (Manolo), Graham Sibley (Ben), Anna Campbell (Tiffany).

• Genre: Romantic Comedy-Drama

• Country of Origin: United States, Mexico (co-production)

• Language: English

• Runtime: 1 hour 34 minutes (94 minutes) or 1 hour 40 minutes (100 minutes) - reported runtimes vary slightly.

• Music by: Juan Carlos Enriquez

• Cinematography: Michael Street

• Editing by: Joell Posey, Romina Rey

• Production Companies: Two Hands Productions, Irreversible Pictures, Attend.

• Producers: Dan Levy Dagerman, Selina Ringel, Ritesh Rajan, Anna Campbell, Cameron Fife, Fernando Lebrija, Pablo Lebrija.

• Budget: Approximately $500,000 (according to The Numbers).

• Filming Location: San Pancho, Nayarit, Mexico, and Los Angeles, California.

Production Company: Independent Spirit and Collaborative Creativity

Two Hands Productions and Irreversible Pictures, along with Attend, are the key production entities behind "You, Me & Her." These independent companies, often involved in collaborative projects, are crucial for bringing unique and personal stories like this to the screen. The fact that the director and writer also served as producers underscores the deeply hands-on and independent nature of the film's creation, reflecting a passion project driven by a desire to share a relatable and honest narrative.

Sales & Distribution: From Festival Circuit to Digital Platforms

• Festival Premiere: Launched at the 2023 Dances with Films festival.

• US Distribution: Distributed by Attend (formerly The Fithian Group) in the United States, utilizing their digital distribution marketplace.

• Release Strategy: A limited theatrical release was part of the strategy, often followed by VOD/digital availability.

• International Sales: Information on international sales agents is less prominent, suggesting a primary focus on the North American market initially.

Release Timeline: 2023 Festival Debut, 2025 US Release

• Festival Premiere (Dances with Films): July 2, 2023.

• US Theatrical Release (Limited): February 14, 2025.

• VOD/Digital Release (US): Expected shortly after its limited theatrical run in 2025.

Why See It: For a Relatable Exploration of Desire

If you are a fan of:

• Modern Romantic Dramas: You enjoy films that explore contemporary relationship challenges with honesty and humor.

• Stories of Self-Discovery: You are interested in narratives where characters uncover new aspects of their identity and sexuality.

• Independent Cinema with a Personal Touch: You appreciate films made with genuine passion and rooted in real-life experiences.

• Ensemble Casts with Good Chemistry: You enjoy watching dynamic interactions between a relatable cast.

• Films That Challenge Relationship Norms: You are open to stories that explore non-traditional relationship dynamics and open communication.

Why Watch: If You Crave Passion and Psychological Intrigue

Watch it if you're drawn to stories where:

• A long-term marriage seeks reinvention: The film explores how couples can evolve and adapt to keep their connection alive.

• Unexpected attractions lead to profound insights: A new relationship sparks a journey of self-discovery for the protagonist.

• The emotional complexities of a "threesome fantasy" are explored: It delves into the feelings, insecurities, and possibilities that arise beyond the sexual aspect.

• You appreciate a balance of humor and heartfelt emotion: The film successfully navigates sensitive topics with a light touch and genuine sentiment.

• You're looking for a fresh perspective on love and identity: It offers a contemporary and honest look at modern relationships.

Movie Trend: The Evolving Landscape of Romantic Dramas & Relationship Exploration

"You, Me & Her" is part of a growing movie trend exploring the evolving landscape of modern relationships and the fluidity of desire. Contemporary romantic dramas are increasingly moving beyond traditional monogamous narratives to delve into themes like open relationships, polyamory, and the nuanced spectrum of human sexuality. This trend reflects a societal shift towards more open conversations about relationship structures and individual desires, challenging conventional romantic tropes and offering more diverse and realistic portrayals of love and partnership on screen.

Social Trend: Redefining Marriage & Sexual Identity

The film deeply resonates with the significant social trend of redefining marriage and personal sexual identity in the 21st century. As society becomes more open to diverse relationship models and individual expressions of sexuality, films like "You, Me & Her" contribute to a broader cultural conversation about what it means to be committed, what constitutes a fulfilling partnership, and how individuals (especially women) can explore their desires and identities outside of rigid societal expectations. It reflects a societal push for greater honesty, consent, and self-discovery within intimate relationships.

Final Conclusions: A Candid and Charming Dive into Modern Matrimony

"You, Me & Her" (2023), directed by Dan Levy Dagerman and written by his wife Selina Ringel (who also stars), offers a refreshingly candid and charming exploration of a marriage seeking reinvention. What begins as a couple's vacation to rekindle their spark takes an unexpected turn when Mags, the wife, develops a powerful chemistry with another woman, leading her and her husband Ash to contemplate the boundaries of their relationship and her own emerging sexual identity. Rooted in personal experience, the film navigates these sensitive themes with a blend of humor, honesty, and emotional intelligence, avoiding sensationalism for genuine human connection. With strong, relatable performances and a contemporary sensibility, "You, Me & Her" stands as a compelling and timely romantic dramedy that invites audiences to ponder the fluid nature of desire and the continuous journey of self-discovery within the ever-evolving landscape of modern love.

Recommendations for Filmmakers: Crafting Intimate Truths and Unseen Narratives

• Embrace Authentic Personal Narratives: Filmmakers should recognize the immense power and relatability that comes from drawing upon personal experiences. "You, Me & Her" exemplifies how adapting a real-life situation, even a sensitive one, can imbue a story with authenticity and emotional depth that resonates profoundly with audiences. This approach allows for a unique voice and a sincere exploration of human complexities, making the film feel genuinely lived-in and relatable.

• Explore Nuanced Relationship Dynamics Beyond the Conventional: Challenge traditional portrayals of relationships by delving into the complexities of long-term partnerships, evolving desires, and non-monogamous curiosity with sensitivity and honesty. "You, Me & Her" demonstrates that such themes, when handled thoughtfully, can open up fresh avenues for romantic comedy-drama, offering audiences a more diverse and contemporary understanding of love and commitment. This means focusing on the emotional journey, communication, and individual growth rather than just the plot device.

• Prioritize Chemistry and Relatability in Casting: For films that hinge on intricate relationship dynamics, investing in casting actors who exhibit genuine chemistry and bring a sense of grounded relatability to their roles is paramount. The success of "You, Me & Her" largely rests on the believable and empathetic portrayals of its lead trio. Filmmakers should prioritize actors who can convey the subtle emotional shifts and internal struggles necessary to make complex relationship narratives feel authentic and engaging.

Recommendations for the Movie Industry: Championing Diverse Stories and Modern Sensibilities

• Support Films that Reflect Evolving Societal Norms: The industry should actively seek out and fund projects that mirror the changing landscape of modern relationships, sexual identities, and familial structures. "You, Me & Her" speaks to a growing societal openness towards discussions around fluidity, open relationships, and marital reinvention. Supporting such films not only meets a contemporary audience demand but also contributes to broader cultural conversations, positioning the industry as forward-thinking and relevant.

• Invest in Independent Voices with Clear Visions: Independent films, often driven by personal passion and limited budgets, frequently offer some of the most innovative and authentic storytelling. The industry should continue to provide platforms and resources for independent filmmakers like Dan Levy Dagerman and Selina Ringel, whose intimate and personal projects can resonate deeply despite not being large-scale productions. These films often fill crucial gaps in representation and genre exploration.

• Promote Transparent and Empathetic Storytelling About Sensitive Topics: When films delve into potentially sensitive or "taboo" subjects like sexual exploration within a marriage, the industry should highlight and support projects that handle these themes with empathy, respect, and a focus on consent and communication, rather than sensationalism. "You, Me & Her" serves as a positive example of how to tackle such topics in a way that fosters understanding and relatability, rather than judgment.

Final Verdict: A Candid and Charming Dive into Modern Matrimony

"You, Me & Her" (2023), directed by Dan Levy Dagerman and written by his wife Selina Ringel (who also stars), offers a refreshingly candid and charming exploration of a marriage seeking reinvention. What begins as a couple's vacation to rekindle their spark takes an unexpected turn when Mags, the wife, develops a powerful chemistry with another woman, leading her and her husband Ash to contemplate the boundaries of their relationship and her own emerging sexual identity. Rooted in personal experience, the film navigates these sensitive themes with a blend of humor, honesty, and emotional intelligence, avoiding sensationalism for genuine human connection. With strong, relatable performances and a contemporary sensibility, "You, Me & Her" stands as a compelling and timely romantic dramedy that invites audiences to ponder the fluid nature of desire and the continuous journey of self-discovery within the ever-evolving landscape of modern love.