Change Your Image
SaarahN
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Admission (2013)
Entertaining
This film may not be of the best, but it does hit the second mark. It is moderately funny, not over the top. It has romance in it, but not to the point of it being cheesy. And, then there's how this film can be described to be quite serious but even so, there's still more to the story line. The cast was well chosen, and did a great job.
The four stars are only because I felt the ending came abruptly. There were so many loose ends that needed to be tied, I wanted more.
But I feel the story was good and the message that we only involve ourselves in a cause if it involves someone we love, or offers us something in return. I wasn't sure if this realisation was a good thing, or if it was to show how corrupt some systems can be, or even just that we as humans are selfish people. But then again, there's more to a film than the message it entails.
The Boy (2016)
Enjoyable
I watched this film during an impromptu sleepover. After having watched multiple trailers, this film piqued our interest. And for good reason, this film is crazy creepy. We meet a young woman, Gretta, who enlists herself to work as a babysitter for an elderly couple's son. Upon arriving, she meets Malcolm- the grocery boy/man. And eventually she meets the family- only to find that their son is actually a doll and they treat 'it' as a real person. Can you imagine? And her job, she decides is only too easy- there's nothing real to look after. No real person to feed, clothe- anything. Though the couple do expect her to fulfil a list of responsibilities: 'rules'. Does she?
Of course not, why would she? There's no reason for it, right? Her responsibility is a doll. Ridiculous, but still an only too easy job. But is it really....? Just remember, everything is not what it seems. And maybe, it might be wise for Gretta to follow the rules- just maybe.
While this film may not have been that horrifying, it was intriguing. I love anything with a twist, and I still have questions about it. After having a debate with heavily conflicted views regarding the little details of the film, with my buddies, we have concluded that this film may not always 'add up' and satisfy your curiosity. Nonetheless 'a fun, senseless, no right answer, built wholly on assumptions' debate after a film is worth everything.
The four stars is only because I engaged in a long debate, and still have no answers! And because I was seeking a film that would give me nightmares, usually that's an easy feat for a film to accomplish- but not with this film. As much as a shame that was, the film was indeed enjoyable.
Cinderella (2015)
Could be better
The film came across as a 'film' version of the 1950 cartoon version, especially because of the inclusion of Cindy's mice friends. I admit, it was funnier, better dresses and there was slight changes which made the film more believable. For one thing, we learn more about the prince (played by Game of Thrones star Richard Madden) then there's how we see more of Cindy's childhood. I liked how the prince was never called 'Prince Charming'. He was an ordinary man/ prince, given the semi-ordinary name Kit. And there's a lovely speech (I think it was part of the narration) that anyone can be a princess, you don't need a tiara, or a title.
Another change was how there was an introduction between Cinderella (played by Lily James) and the prince, prior to the ball. I always found it ridiculous that anyone can marry based on 'first sight' or 'one night' together. So I was pleased by this change- I love when people meet for the first time.
Honestly, I watched this film because it was the only 'half decent' thing on the telly, and then there was my friend who did a 'Cinderella' movie marathon the weekend prior- so I figured it was a fitting choice. I had actually seen the ending a while before, with my siblings- during family night which they had conveniently moved to 'day- time'. I had missed out the beginning since I was out gardening with my mum, while they were huddled on the settee watching Cinderella. At the time, I had no desire to watch it again, based on the ending. Even right now, I'd say the beginning of the film was my favourite part.
The film begins with the happily ever after of Ella's family (her parents and her). We meet her mother and then we hear of the illness. Right before she passes, we get the idea that her mother was fantastic and couldn't have possibly been any better. Then, we see Ella and her mother having a conversation, Ella promises her mother that she will 'have courage and be kind'. That's the message at the centre of the film.
A beautiful message, no doubt. But I feel it was overused quite a bit. If you've seen the Cinderella films before, or had a read of the fairy tale, you'll already know the story line. You'll know that shortly after Ella's mother's passing, Ella's father marries again. To a widow, with two daughters. You'll know that this woman and her children are cruel and wicked to young Ella so, as you can imagine, the message 'be kind' (in particular) is a very difficult one. But still, Ella never falters. I liked how this presented the strength of a promise, how it should be honoured. But it was such a high expectation, she never rages, says something mean, it was boring (and unbelievable- she only asks the reason for their actions). I view the vow she made to her mother as an overwhelming burden, it's not healthy to repress emotions. It was a ridiculous message, and she an unhealthy, unreal, role model.
I recently learnt that Lily James had to read about the Indian peace activist such as Ghandi to develop patience and properly prepare herself for the role. I still felt it was too forced, I wanted her to feel some hate and resentment. For me, Ella was the kind of girl my parents used to compare me to-as a way of asking, "why can't you be like her?" I wanted emotion: not just tears, happiness and indifference. What about anger? Fear? Wait, there was also love and compassion. After all, she forgives her step mother. On second note, all the characters were really one- dimensional. They were either good or bad, is that common of all fairy tales?
I know there's the whole 'corset, tiny waist' drama about the film. I suppose if that worries you, maybe don't watch the film with your children. Personally, I never noticed-I'm oblivious to such tiny details. I only found out when my friend told me about how the Cinderella actress Lily James had to go on a liquid diet because she couldn't eat properly in the corset. My friend, though, had actually heard that the actress went on the liquid diet in order to attain the tiny waist. This isn't true at all. And sure, the idea of a liquid diet idea sounds disgustingly difficult, but really the tiny waist isn't exactly flaunted (well, Cinderella does dance around in the dress). But it's not exactly shoved in your face. In cartoons, all the characters have tiny waists-as unhealthy an image as it is. I wouldn't overly concern myself with it, just stress to your children that people come in all shapes and sizes, nothing bad about it.
I recommend this film for families- particularly if watching with older children or with adults who don't like animation/cartoons any more, or looking for something little different.
They Came Together (2014)
A film attempting to mock all romantic comedies, ever made!
A film attempting to mock all romantic comedies, ever made!.Was it good at meeting this aim? I'd say so, it mocked multiple clichés from the clumsy damsel in distress, to the 'afraid of commitment' male lead....For me, the film was quite off putting, hence the three stars, I felt that because it had to include all the stupid clichés-in order to mock them- the film was too predictable. This film was like a bad Shakespeare play- just like him, this film mocked love at first sight, 'the rivalry to love' story, how everything always worked itself out. The unhappy ending surprise, near the end, was a welcome one. A break from all the predictability.
As a piece of satire, the film wasn't bad. But because I adore so many romantic comedies, this film was like a slap in the face. A piece which serves to ridicule, and reveal the irony and stupidity behind rom-coms. Everything presented was a sort of reminder that you've seen it all before. Even if the characters were charming. Though, as much as I disliked certain aspects, I do think this was clever- and entertaining, the dialogue was brilliant. Particularly when Joel receives a promotion for the most ridiculous, least inspiring, speech of all time. And he says something along the lines of 'I wasn't expecting that at all'. When, it was more than clear that he would receive it, a play on the idea of everything always working out.
While I wouldn't recommend this film to committed rom-com fans, I will recommend to those who call themselves 'anti-romantics'. Though, I'm sure anyone will appreciate most of the humour, but I can't promise you'll laugh all the way through.
I Am Sam (2001)
I'd recommend for Father's Day
I think there are points in everyone's life when we begin to question our parent's love for us, or how we'd have turned out had we been born into a different family. The grass being greener on the other side concept. Then there comes a point when we stop questioning and we start to accept the love for what it is. We settle for 'enough', not willing to believe that perhaps we deserve more than what we have now.
This film provokes intense appreciation for all we have been blessed with: we may have faults, deficiencies, we may be victims of disorders, but we are what we make of ourselves: we are more than what we are born with, more than the families we've been born into. No family's perfect: too often we think those who have been born into a rich lifestyle are so happy...But money doesn't solve all of our problems. Money can't buy you love: at least not the real kind of love.
This film portrays the powerful love a father has for his child, how he wants the best for her- even if it means separation from him. A man willing to fight and determined to achieve custody of his little girl. I'm unafraid to admit that this film made me cry, sob uncontrollably and made me forget whatever suffering I've ever gone through. Yep-the type of film that shifts your life's problems into perspective. There's nothing greater and more powerful than the love between a child and their caregivers. And there's nothing that serves as a greater blessing than having a love akin to that.
I recommend this film because it encompasses a beautiful and true message and because there's real feeling in the characters. I have nothing more to say, just that there aren't enough films out there that have you feeling so broken, only to lift your spirits over.
Big Fish (2003)
Magical!
This is a film about a young man, Will Bloom, who grew up with his father's stories. His father, Edward Bloom, is quite the storyteller, his stories are peculiar- magical! Though they have resulted in Will feeling as though he doesn't know his father- that his father is almost like a character in a fairy tale. It is to be expected since, Edward Bloom's stories revolve around witches, giants, creatures who are man by day, and wolves by night. And all these creatures, Edward Bloom, tells stories about, he also claims to have met them and, that they exist. Cute when you tell these stories to a five year old, but to a thirty year old? Not so much.
And so, Will is convinced that: 'A man tells his stories so many times that he becomes the stories. They live on after him, and in that way he becomes immortal.' Edward Bloom can tell the same story over and over, and Will is getting tired of all the silly stories. For, he is now presented with quite the challenge: to tell his father's story. His father is battling with cancer, and doesn't have a lot of time left. And Will is wondering what he will describe of his father, to his future children? He finds it near 'impossible to separate fact from fiction, the man from the myth." But still, when he makes plans to visit his gravely ill father, it is with the intention of finally being able to understand him, even if his father doesn't always make sense.
This film touched a nerve with me. I'm the type of person who likes to tell children stories. The weirdest sort: from how animals speak English when people are sleeping, and the latest being that werewolves are real, as are vampires. I'm still trying to convince them of tooth-fairies. But I see little hope. How they believe in werewolves of all things, but not tiny flying people, is beyond me. Especially when they get a coin after every tooth. They have no such proof for the existence of werewolves! See why I see little hope? Anyway, I'm sure you've now concluded that I receive a great deal of satisfaction after successfully 'lying' to a child. Of course, when the child is older they'll tell the same lies-that I'm sure. But in some ways I feel like this is the sort of film that makes you guilty for all the lies you've ever told. I mean, what if my child grows up believing I'm nothing but a liar? That because all my stories were lies, that I too am a liar? Or what if I take a lie too far? Personally I don't see this happening, I am in a habit of forgetting whatever it is I lied about, but this is what Edward Bloom did with his son. Of course, this is a film based on a story. But it still raises a valid point.
But then, there's the flip side. The magic, the wonder, the incredible change in perspective: you have the power to change a child's life. All, by shaping just how they see the world. That's some power, and I'll like to put it to a good use. As Roald Dahl says there's magic in everything. So why can't we give our children a small peek at what they will one day find for themselves?
The film represents both sides: Will is the realist, he wants the facts. The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. And then there's Edward Bloom, he's the crazy storyteller who may just convince you his stories are more than stories. When their two perspectives meet, what will happen?
I recommend this film for parents to watch with your young children. For those times when you're struggling to have them believe in tooth-fairies! Maybe I just care too much since my own parents weren't much for telling stories, I was that kid who would look forward to the story telling sessions at school and shushing the others when they so much as whispered something over the teacher's words.
NB: I gave this film four stars only because it left me feeling a little confused at the end. So parents, be warned. But with children, I don't see how you'll have any problem! Well, in my experience.
Because I Said So (2007)
Just wow....
A charming film, charming characters and an excellent story. It was great, superb for a better word. So so great. And if you've seen the film, you'll understand just what I did there. And if you haven't- what are you waiting for? This film is about a meddling, hovering helicopter of a mother to three beautiful, independent daughters. Trouble is, one of the said daughters- Milly- can't seem to catch a good guy. She's had her fair share of the jerks, the workaholics, the 'unavailable' ones, the psychopaths...you name it. And her mother can't have any of them for a son in law- Oh God no. So of course, she she interviews a bunch of prospective men, and women, for her daughter. One man catches her eye, and she has him meet her daughter. They hit it off, but Milly has another man she's stringing along. She can't seem to decide between them.
I've never been able to tolerate cheating, so I wouldn't say Milly's 'temporary solution' was the wisest. But, I feel the story was engaging, and laugh out loud funny. Not a kiddish sort of film though, but definitely a good choice to keep a bunch of adults amused. Mandy Moore, who plays the 'spinster' daughter, was wonderful in this film. The passion and enthusiasm was definitely there, reminding me of her acting in a Walk to Remember. You just can't go wrong with Moore.
Equally, insanely charismatic was Gabriel Macht who played one of the men vying, unknowingly, for Milly's heart. As a fan of his acting in the TV show drama Suits, I enjoyed his performance. There's something about his characters, always an air of mystery but the ever present, alluring charm. A lot of the humour, however, can be attributed to Diane Keaton who plays the controlling mother. Her smile is infectious and her antics, frustrating but genuine. A mother worried for her children.
I will recommend this film for a mother's day film- but only if you're really close to your mother, else it'd be little awkward. For mom and you, both.
Uncanny (2015)
I would watch this again
Mind boggling! In the sense that it's so difficult to imagine, but the unforeseen twist near the end explains so much. This is a film I will definitely recommend and can talk at great length about. But there is so much I cannot say, so as to not ruin your experience. So I will tell you what little I can.
David is a young man, a genius, and he has been cooped up in a huge workshop environment. This is where he works on constructing robotics, bionics and where he generates scientific research. Ground breaking research. So it comes as no surprise that this is a man with many secrets. And there are few which are not his to share. He is working for Castle, an enigmatic figure who has offered David this opportunity to create anything, with anything.
David is not alone at this workshop, for he has someone with him: Adam. He is a strange man, but is he man at all? No, for he's David's creation- a robot. They get along well: David and Adam, like brothers. But then their relationship becomes strained, marked by the arrival of an intelligent, beautiful young woman: Joy Andrews. What happens then? Can a robot feel anything? Can a robot become human? Believe it or not, I have not revealed the whole film. There are more intelligently crafted surprises this film has to offer.
I am not exaggerating when I declare this film was 'intelligently crafted', if anything that is an understatement. It's just that when the big secret was revealed, so much was explained. All that stuff I barely noticed, all those strange occurrences, it was a jigsaw missing a vital piece. And at the end, everything slotted into place. This film was so well though out, and so brilliantly put together.
Also, I especially liked the acting, just as well as the dialogue. David Clayton Rogers, who plays Adam, was brilliant and his dialogue was especially passionate and at times, quite inspiring. And to think there are only four characters in this film and only really two locations. Amazing! It had me thinking Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, at some points. Is the creator and the creation one and the same? Is the creation an illusion?
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
5.0 out of 5 stars I have seen this film twice and wouldn't hesitate to watch it again: the test of a good film., 16
After having read some of the negative reviews for this film, I have noted that most people were upset, and rated this film harshly, because of it having been a poor film adaptation of the book. So, since I have not yet read the book this film is based on, I feel I should judge this film as a film in its own right. I do not in any way mean to discredit the reviews of others', through this review. As a book over film person, myself, I can understand their irritation.
For a romantic comedy, this film was hugely entertaining. I've never known a character who could mess up so much, and charmingly: from her compulsive and mostly unbelievable lies, to how her friend's bridesmaid's dress manages to find its way into a charity shop. Isla Fisher's enthusiasm matched the characters: her excitement when visiting a store, or when hearing about a sale. It was just wow. The storyline in itself was also humorous: a young woman struggling to control her urge to 'shop till she drops' finds herself working for a financial savings journal. The irony. Her debt is only getting higher with that stress: only shopping can make her happy. I was surprised she didn't ask her parents for money sooner, considering her crazy spending habits. Equally, I'm surprised her parents didn't freak out or reprimand her behaviour. But outside of that, the film was wonderful- I'd watch with anyone over ten or eleven years of age, it may seem boring, particularly the bits when she's at work, to a younger child.
Drive Me Crazy (1999)
The good kind of predictable
You'll love this film if you appreciate light humour, a predictable plot and the message of staying true to yourself. A young woman, Nicole, wishes to avoid the ridicule of going to prom alone, so she enlists the services of her old friend and next door neighbour, Chase. Why do they decide to go together? So they can also make their true 'special someones' jealous. But they have to make it a good scam, of course, so they act all loved up before the actual prom. And they might just realise what true love is, who knows?
I'm a fan of Melissa Joan Hart, so it comes as a forgone conclusion that I'll enjoy this film. The other leading role was also equally entertaining. A scam well-played? But who's scamming whom?
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Dear God....
This film gives a new definition to the word brilliant. It's the most inspiring film I've seen in a long time. Terrific. I watched this film to honour the incredible late actor, comedian, and a patron of other noble professions, Robin Williams. Mr. Keating. Oh Captain, my Captain. To honour his legacy, and in his memory: just yesterday was the anniversary of his death.
All good films must come to an end, the end of this film was a tragic one. And all the while, as much as I wish to be able to write a new one, I'm reminded that the world is what we make it. So, in light of the coming film release of the BFG, and in respect for this delightfully engaging film, I give a message to parents: fuel your children's passions, let 'em dream, give them reason to live and nurture their talents. Teach 'em and give them happiness. In Thoreau's words 'suck out all the marrow in life'. Help your children seek out all every last drop of goodness, teach them to appreciate it. The alternative? Live with, or rather suffer, the consequences.
My own parents wouldn't exactly be open to practising this message, so I understand what it means to be hindered, to have your path chosen for you. And I recognise just how vital it is to not pressure our children to live the life we never did, that we could never have dreamt possible. I hope to have the opportunity, one day, to put my message into practice. I hope you'll join me. And if you have no desire to, then watch this film- I can only hope it will change your decision.
Now because I should actually be reviewing this film, I'll begin. This is the sort of film that can reveal the fractures, the breaking points, the faults of a system, of society. It introduces a new way of thinking, helps tackle blind, ignorant, conformity. Teaches us to raise our voice, to take a stand. This film has the potential to build a new kind of individual: a rebel, an intellectual, someone who earnestly seeks out the opportunity to learn, and create. Someone who makes or breaks tradition- but an individual who doesn't act alone but, with a network of friends. Together, they give rise to a revolution.
To quote from Walt Whitman, as Mr Keating does, 'the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.' And to ask the question Mr Keating gives his students, and one I believe we should all be asked at some point in our lives, "what will your verse be?"
This film is at the very top of my favourites list! And I can promise you will love it, dead poet's honour
NB: I realise this review strays from the usual written structure, but I figured all the other reviewers will be able to attest to the fact that the acting was brilliant, casting choices on-point, etc...
Some Girl(s) (2013)
That's right......Love has a distressing side.
I would never watch this film again. Ever. The trailer had made it seem so good, and if you can't judge a film by its trailer, what do you judge it by? The reviews, that's right. Why I didn't check the reviews, I have no idea. I actually think you would enjoy reading my review than watching film.
This film was terrible. The main character, (what was his name?), experienced some sort of dream which spurred him on to 'right his wrongs', to remedy all the broken hearts he caused, to help him live with himself. That's what he sets out to do, most probably it was inspired by his engagement and a promise of acceptance to a monogamous lifestyle. He wanted to start afresh, he desired forgiveness.
So he creates a list of his most notable exes (not all of them, just five) and he travels to them, to 'talk'. He didn't even have a game plan. An idiot, no doubt. So...you have to cope with a lot of stuttering on his part and the obvious confusion, he had no idea what he was after. He had left all of them, at some point in their relationship, he was a coward. But not the romantic type for 'the one that got away' , is there a romantic type? So of course, they were angry. Not at first, but being the idiot he was, he provoked them to speak of their memories, to relive the pain. Initially, that's all I thought, just that he was bad with words (did I mention he was a writer?) and that he wasn't aware of what he was doing. But, I came to realise he was just playing with their feelings.
But then, I began to feel a tad sympathetic for him: he was lost and in search of forgiveness. But then I began to think about what would make his character worse...And it came to be: he sought them out to write a story on them for some magazine or something. So all that crap about seeking forgiveness was just that. Crap.
This is what he had done before, he had written his stories on them when he had broken their hearts. Did I feel sympathy for him, at this point? Not at all, he was just an idiot through and through.
The only reason my rating isn't completely harsh is because I loved that all the exes were intelligent, they all knew what had gone on and they showed him "who's boss". Their only mistake was him, but it really wasn't them, it was him. I especially liked Kristen Bell in this film, she completely detested the man. We shared a common dislike and then, the way she played with his feelings. Pure genius. But that was more the character, I liked Bell for her passion in the role. It was real. Jennifer Morrison was also strong in her role, perhaps a little crazed it seemed.
Another small thing I liked was the fact that there was no happily ever after, it was open ended and I like to believe that his fiancé ended up with someone new or that his marriage turns out to be a complete misery. Yes, that's how much I hated the main guy. You'd think that I've experience with a man of such nature, I actually don't. And I'm more than grateful for it.
The Escort (2015)
Refreshing!
The above synopsis (that written on this Amazon page, next to the film title) is all wrong. So I will attempt to write my own.
The Escort is a sincerely honest film following the life of a young, female escort (Natalie) who feels 'forced' into the profession because of a past experience. When she catches the attention of a young unemployed 'journalist' (Mich), who is also a sex addict, she finds herself questioning her lifestyle. I'm kidding, they actually happen to have a lot of common ground- who'd have thought? So there is no judgement of one another, and they devise an agreement to help one another: Natalie agrees to be the subject of a controversial journalism project, that may just win Mich the career of his dreams. And, Mich agrees to serve as Natalie's protection and security (against reckless, violent clients), per Natalie's request. They hit it off, as friends, getting to know one another. But then, they become more....but are either of them ready for that? Natalie pursues a sex-filled life because it's all she can do. For Mich, it's all he wants to do.
This film is very mature, but surprisingly there is no nudity. And the acting and casting choices were commendable. It really worked. I would say there definitely was comedy in this, but it wasn't very strong. The only comedy I appreciated was how Mich's family and friends reacted to the revelation of him being a sex addict. What I didn't appreciate was having a twelve-year-old curse and utter such profanities -this is not comedy. Having to resort to this, to get a laugh from the audience is cheap and crass. I would say this film is more of the drama genre.
The only other thing I didn't like was how Mich had no respect for women, he used them for sex and then, dismissed them easily. This was expected of course, (for a sex addict), but I didn't like it.
It was strangely refreshing to find that this was not a film where love forcefully changes you. Instead they made the choice to change their lifestyles for love, there was no obligation to do so: it was based on opportunity. This means that Mich was not her 'saviour', she was an independent but lonely woman. She didn't need him, she wanted him. If that's not love, I don't know what is.
Likewise, it was also refreshing to find that Natalie was not brought into the 'escort' business because of a poor upbringing, 'that it was all she ever knew'. It wasn't that at all, she was actually Stanford -educated. Such controversy.
I Give It a Year (2013)
What a laugh!
After having watched the trailer, I immediately knew this film would be worth procrastinating with and I was not wrong. Such comedy!
The film centres in on the lives of a newly-wed, quite unlikely, couple. In their words, they only happen to be in 'love with the idea of being in love'. Their friends do not believe their shambles of a marriage will survive a year, it is quite obvious why that is.
And what happens when the couple begin to see a 'better' option? The prospect of a life free of such misery? The film had me on my toes up until the very last minute, it didn't seem plausible one way or the other. But that's what love is: uncertain and unpredictable, of that I'm sure.
So, of course, because they are a well-off, contemporary couple dealing with such issues, they consult a marriage counsellor. She invariably added a welcome spin on things-what, with her own disintegrating marriage and all. Why they stuck with her was quite stupid, possibly the only flaw in the film. It's like allowing a doctor with a notorious track record of killing his patients, inject you. Okay, maybe not quite as serious but you get my drift.
The cast was brilliantly engaging, and Simon Baker ('prospective' love interest) was charming as always..After having watched The Mentalist religiously, I am quite a fan of his work. An entertaining watch, and a lucky find. Films which have you both, cooing and laughing hysterically are quite rare. In my final attempt to convince you to watch this, I'll mention that the leading couple have English accents, as do many of the other characters. Did that work, at all?
Jackie & Ryan (2014)
Genuine
Love me like you do follows two individuals, Jackie and Ryan, as they deal with the struggles of life. Jackie tends to reflect on her life, her past, what brought her there and the choices she has made, whilst Ryan is all about going forward, where next? Ryan is the good-natured, young, traveller. Jackie is a stuck-at-home single mother. They both share a passion for music, Jackie has lived the dream, it didn't go well. Ryan has yet to pursue his, he's patiently seeking it out.
What happens when their paths cross? Simple, they help each other. They believe and inspire one another: Jackie inspires Ryan to write his own songs, to be an original. Ryan helps Jackie to move on, and to believe in herself. This was another thing I liked, as well as how the characters are able to be independent of one another- there is none of that all too common mourning, clinging behaviour. They are accepting of one another, especially in the case of Jackie- she understands Ryan and his travelling, train hopping habits. She is strong, she can survive without him. This is a powerful message, which Katherine delivered exceptionally.
Do Jackie and Ryan fall in love? That, I'm afraid, is an answer best left to interpretation. I'd like to think they do but, just as easily, they could be passers by in one another's lives, a friendly encounter.
This film is so very endearing, Katherine Heigl has always been a favourite of mine, she's such a great actress, her smile, alone, can win her any part. She was very fitting for this role, and there was definitely on screen chemistry between her character and Ryan. A good pair, but I felt their relationship (on-screen) would be better off platonic. The casting choices were a success, even the child actress (played by Emily Alyn Lind) was far from the usual irritating, annoying, cheerful child. It was real, and I loved it.
The country themed music (my favourite genre) was beautifully reflective. Before watching this film, I had some reservations- in the end, I watched it because of Katherine Heigl (of course!). Initially, I had thought this would be a romantic comedy, I'm not against those at all, but it was still a pleasant surprise to discover this was different. It wasn't very drama filled, nor was it comedic (at all), I'd have to say it was one of those self discovery type of films, it was very similar to Before we go (starring Chris Evans) I wouldn't watch it again, but only because I feel as though the novelty of the film would no longer exist.
Now for what I didn't like: Jackie was portrayed to be sensible in the rest of the film, but she invites a stranger into her home, said home also houses her child and her mother. It was a ridiculous idea, he may have helped her but that doesn't make him any less of a stranger.
Another thing is that Jackie was fighting to maintain parental custody of her child, this is a difficult fight for her but it's not too clear if she succeeds. There is no celebration and it did seem a lost case but...I don't like this being left to interpretation.
Another thing I didn't like was Jackie's prior romantic relationship (with her soon to be ex husband) as there was no explanation for its failure. I suppose I like knowing everything, my curiosity was unsatisfied, that's all.
Finding Normal (2013)
Will never re-watch
Iyou're looking for a sweet, Christian, country film...Look no further. This film centres around a young doctor(portrayed by Candice Cameron Buré) who plans a trip with her boyfriend. She is set to meet him at the destination, rather than travel with him. During the road trip she encounters a problem and is stuck behind bars- at a loss, with no money to post bail, she is forced to do community service as the small town of Normal's doctor, for three days.
She is dead set against making the most of the hold-up, which comes as no surprise- she is a city girl, after all. But as the days progress, she begins to question her life in the city- was that life all she ever wanted? She begins to question the value of her city career, and after meeting a wise, older doctor, she questions the ethical nature of her medical practices. Predictably, she also begins to doubt her relationship with her boyfriend of five years (the same one she is supposed to meet)- and this is only after another (more romantic but less educated?) prospect arrives at the scene.
And that is this film's biggest downfall: not because it was cliché but because it was unbelievable: half a decade is a really long time, and to think in all that time she had been ignorant of the pleasures of a simple life is wholly unrealistic and makes her seem quite foolish. If she had run into a long lost love or 'the one that got away', maybe I'd be more understanding- but with this, I'm honestly doubting her attraction to the country boy (as he refers to himself- he is portrayed by Trevor St. John). Their relationship seemed too platonic. However, if you're looking for a happy ending (or an ending that will please any romantic), this is definitely for you. Conversely, if you're looking for a more realistic story, I recommend Before We Go 2014 (starring Chris Evans) or Last Night 2010 (starring Keira Knightley). It's just that the romantic love seemed like an infatuation- nothing cement. They may have shared a few deep conversations but, to me, they amounted to nothing. It was foolish of her to throw away five years for three days. But then again, I don't know know how love works. No one really does.
Side note: The Louisiana accents are on-point, you may have to rewind to know what is being said! The casting choices were also commendable, especially the ol' wise guy (portrayed by Lou Beatty Jr.) was an excellent choice! I adored the character's wisdom, his sincerity and his words were perfectly timed- as an actor, he performed well. I also liked the character of the country boy- he too was a 'smart guy' but then again his intelligence was "just average for a country boy."
Heart of the Matter (2015)
Not better than an 'Okay'
Review of The Portrait of Love: There are spoilers in this, but not anything completely unpredictable.
This film was beautiful, but I wouldn't re-watch it. Before you conclude that it wasn't worthwhile, please note that there aren't many films I'm fond of re-watching, and also allow me to explain. But before I do, I have to describe the film: a young aspiring photographer no longer feels as though she is getting a 'kick' out of her work efforts, so when her friend provides her with a distraction, in spite of her initial reluctance, she gladly accepts. This means, as she is aware, she must return to her hometown- and potentially be reunited with an 'old love'. Predictably, this reunion does indeed occur, and she finds that her friend has moved on, he has a daughter. The daughter was actually quite annoying, I usually don't mind children in films such as these but I do mind it when they don't contribute anything humorous: she goes to the library to find out what a muse is, whatever happened to the internet? Obviously, I didn't mind the young actress, it was the character who grated my nerves. It was this character that put me off ever re-watching this film.
This film explores art in its basic form: the creation of something beautiful from love and passion. I'm interested in art myself, so I had no problem with this but I felt the film was confused in its depiction of 'love': love means sacrifice, it means to take chances, to be bold. Neither character fulfilled this (not until the end): prior to the end, they simply responded to circumstances. In a cowardice manner. This suggested that they weren't ready to forgive one another...So how on earth were they ready to love? At the end, they were more risky in declaring their love but even this seemed out of desperation...It was only until April decided that she must leave, that Luke declared himself. Again, this awfully seems like he was just responding to circumstances- only, this time, it was in a not-so-cowardice manner.
Another small flaw was that we never saw Luke's life without April- we are offered glimpses, like how he moved away from art to go into furniture, but what about the more important stuff? What was his wife like- in his words? Did they ever have disagreements? I hate how (most) dead people automatically become martyrs and their faults, forgotten.
But those were problems I had with the characters and the script; in terms of the actors, I can't say that I had any problems. They certainly seemed to have the on-screen chemistry mastered.