Twice in a Lifetime (1985) is a poignant family drama that explores the complex emotional fallout when a long-term marriage reaches a breaking point. The film centers on Harry Mackenzie, a 50-year-old steelworker played with remarkable nuance by Gene Hackman, who begins an extramarital relationship that shatters his family's stability. As Harry pursues this new romance, his wife Kate (Ellen Burstyn) and their grown children grapple with feelings of betrayal, anger, and confusion, creating uncomfortable friction that tests every familial bond.

Director Bud Yorkin handles this sensitive material with remarkable restraint, avoiding melodrama in favor of authentic emotional moments. The performances are uniformly excellent—Hackman brings both vulnerability and stubbornness to his role, while Burstyn delivers a heartbreaking portrayal of a woman rebuilding her identity after decades of marriage. The supporting cast, including Amy Madigan and Ally Sheedy as the conflicted daughters, adds depth to the family dynamics.

What makes Twice in a Lifetime worth watching is its honest examination of midlife crises and family relationships. Rather than taking sides, the film presents multiple perspectives on infidelity and personal fulfillment. The 1980s industrial town setting provides a gritty backdrop that grounds the emotional drama in social reality. For viewers interested in character-driven stories about marriage, aging, and family conflict, this underrated drama offers thoughtful storytelling and superb acting that remains relevant decades later.