Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones have such great chemistry as a married couple that is struggling with their marriage after 31 years. This couple is able to effectively convey the heartache of a dysfunctional marriage. They are well written characters that are sympathetic. Outside of the performances of the two main cast members, Hope Springs has the feeling of a romantic comedy, but tells the story as a drama. It feels like it refuses to identify itself in either category. This causes for some light laughs, but nothing overly humorous. The most refreshing thing about this film is that it takes a look at a mature relationship rather than the "love-at-first-sight" stories that Hollywood bombards us with. This film leaves some compelling moments on the table though, focusing so much on rebuilding the sexuality of the main couple and neglecting to rekindle a meaningful relationship. The story is written as if sex is the main thing in saving a relationship. Although it may be a factor, it is not the whole of saving a marriage, and this film neglects some potentially powerful material. Overall, I give this film a 7/10 for it's strong acting performance and fresh take on a love story.