Not always a fan of Meryl Streep, only lately have I started to pay attention especially with Julie & Julia, she has been one of those actors that have just existed in hollywood. And, Alec well somehow he has always managed to find a way onto the silver screen. That being said, this time around they were meant for these rolls. Meryl executed the love lorn, lost, anxious ex wife left for a younger woman maiden in distress, while Alec (not that I know the guy) seemed completely himself, I think his character is almost what the guy is in his everyday life.