This movie was Stanley Donen's swan song. He made a lot of great movies like "Singing in the Rain," "Damn Yankees," and "Charades". This isn't quite as good, but it does show his terrific cinematic craftsmanship. The movie that this most resembles is Donen's "Two for the Road," which starred Audrey Hepburn and Albert Finney. There Donen also showed a long time romance through lots of wonderful short scenes. This one is more linear and easier to follow than "Two for the Road," however this one is also more predictable and has a bit less passion.
Laura Linney really stands out. I know her from her excellent work in the movie "Kinsey" She's much younger here, but really is delightful to watch. Steven Weber is okay and turns in an interesting performance as man who rises in the world, but doesn't end up that satisfied.
The movie raises an interesting question which it never really answers: how much do we owe to the people who love us? The male character, Andrew, would apparently answer, "Not Much," and the female character, Melissa, would answer "A lot". I love the way Laura Linney just hints at the end that Andrew is more responsible for Melissa's condition than he cares to admit.
One can defend Andrew. He did not deceive Melissa at any time and he only chose what was best for himself. He never abandoned his comfort zone. From Melissa's point of view, he chose her when she was 7 years old and then abandoned her as an adult. He was cruel and irresponsible towards her.
It is nice that the movie lets each character have their own point of view and doesn't judge anybody. It is up to each of us to do that.
The author and Donen have done an excellent job of opening out the stage play. Only occasionally does it feel stage bound. For the most part, due to the excellent editing, it is quite cinematic and well paced.
Laura Linney really stands out. I know her from her excellent work in the movie "Kinsey" She's much younger here, but really is delightful to watch. Steven Weber is okay and turns in an interesting performance as man who rises in the world, but doesn't end up that satisfied.
The movie raises an interesting question which it never really answers: how much do we owe to the people who love us? The male character, Andrew, would apparently answer, "Not Much," and the female character, Melissa, would answer "A lot". I love the way Laura Linney just hints at the end that Andrew is more responsible for Melissa's condition than he cares to admit.
One can defend Andrew. He did not deceive Melissa at any time and he only chose what was best for himself. He never abandoned his comfort zone. From Melissa's point of view, he chose her when she was 7 years old and then abandoned her as an adult. He was cruel and irresponsible towards her.
It is nice that the movie lets each character have their own point of view and doesn't judge anybody. It is up to each of us to do that.
The author and Donen have done an excellent job of opening out the stage play. Only occasionally does it feel stage bound. For the most part, due to the excellent editing, it is quite cinematic and well paced.