By Your Leave

A middle-aged husband who feels the spice has left his marriage. He ventures into New York’s nightlife to seek novelty, exposing his vulnerability to temptation. His impulsive choices create tension with Ellen as he grapples with desire and fidelity.

A suburban wife who initially embodies contentment but harbors curiosity about life beyond domestic routine. Her experiences in the city awaken competing desires and force her to confront her feelings for Henry. Her eventual choice to reconcile underscores the film’s emphasis on partnership.

Henry’s nightlife companion, a worldly and persuasive figure who drags Henry further into the escapade. He embodies the urban temptations and offers cynical wit that tests Henry’s judgment. Skeets serves as a catalyst for the couple’s entanglements.

A charismatic Broadway dancer who becomes a target of Henry’s pursuit. She embodies the glamour and allure of nightlife, presenting a tempting escape from domestic life. Her interactions highlight the seductive pull of the city’s party circuit.

Gloria’s friend and fellow Broadway dancer, part of the nightlife milieu. She represents the social circle that enlarges the couple’s opportunities for distraction. Merle’s presence amplifies the sense of temptation in the city.

A world-traveling, friendly dancer who becomes part of Henry’s nightlife vignette. Open to advancing the relationship, Andree embodies the ease with which situational choices can escalate. Her interactions with Henry propel the night’s romantic tension.

A charming world traveler who captivates Ellen and takes her to a dinner and later, his yacht. He represents the allure of exotic freedom and the possibility of eluding ordinary life. His presence heightens Ellen’s awareness of her own desires and the consequences of choices made in the moment.

Henry’s old friend who schemes to provide him a carefree night and, behind the scenes, manipulates events to deepen the entanglements. He embodies the cynical, opportunistic edge of urban nightlife. Freddie’s actions catalyze the emotional rollercoaster that follows for Henry and Ellen.