David W. Scott's "The Behaviour of Houses" is a well crafted and thoughtful piece which is greatly attentive to the complexities of human relationships. While the film bears a dramatic weight that does much justice to the complications that arise from making commitments to loved ones and lovers, it also bursts with moments of bright and unconventional humour that are equally magnetic. Scott skillfully captures the tensions produced when the ends of personal ties are tugged at. The conflicts that arise may at first appear to be representative of contrasting external backdrops. But amidst the big city and the suburbs, lead characters Colum, Melinda, and Jeremy demonstrate how the stereotypes and assumptions typically associated with each setting crumble upon a closer look. Not only does the tight cast exude much chemistry as a whole, but the dynamics between each pairing of characters reveal the intriguing dimensions of each relationship. Sarah Title and Norman Owen create a convincing romantic relationship in the roles of Melinda and Colum. Owen beautifully expresses the internal tumbling of Colum's earnest, intellectual, and vulnerable characteristics. Title, whose character must face both personal tragedy and various tests of her commitment to Colum, her family, and herself, charges her performance with a wonderful mix of subtlety and intensity. As Melinda's brother Jeremy, Matt Murphy provides several sparks of unpredictability that complicate what is beneath Jeremy's initially disinterested and aloof guard. It is particularly amusing to watch as his shocking stories from his past abroad eclipse other characters' efforts to show him an exciting time in Toronto. There are no easy routes taken in terms of solving the problems that each character faces. The film's open conclusion invites engagement and interpretation while investing in an audience's desire to not be spoon fed neat and obvious outcomes. Scott's direction provides the story with the patience it deserves to unfold in a way that feels unforced and fresh. It's particularly refreshing to see such a film with its focus on dialogue and character development offer glittering talent in acting, writing, and direction amidst this summer's onslaught of glitzy yet often hollow blockbusters. Scott tracks beautifully tracks the undoing of knots in the bonds between people. Rather than offering new connections or portraying the breaking of old ones, we're provided with interesting possibilities for movement- a more thoughtful and sensitive approach to how relationships people have with each other- and with places- can be handled.