In 1982, six college friends perform a review in front of a bored audience. Ten years later, they reunite for New Years weekend after Peter Morton (Stephen Fry) inherits the family country manor. Andrew Benson (Kenneth Branagh) is a Hollywood writer married to successful American actress Carol (Rita Rudner). Mary (Imelda Staunton) and Roger Charleston (Hugh Laurie) are married jingle writers. Maggie Chester (Emma Thompson) is a single cat lady and publisher. Sarah Johnson is a fashion designer coming with married Brian.
The easy comparison is The Big Chill. Branagh brings together his friends and colleagues. Rita Rudner doesn't seem right as an acting diva. I'm surprised that Branagh couldn't get a bigger name for the role. A California blonde would be much better for the contrast. The characters are obvious and broadly drawn. Once the characters are presented, the story doesn't really go too far. There was a fresh energy about The Big Chill but this goes over like a cold rainy English day. The great cast does keep the interest high throughout.
The easy comparison is The Big Chill. Branagh brings together his friends and colleagues. Rita Rudner doesn't seem right as an acting diva. I'm surprised that Branagh couldn't get a bigger name for the role. A California blonde would be much better for the contrast. The characters are obvious and broadly drawn. Once the characters are presented, the story doesn't really go too far. There was a fresh energy about The Big Chill but this goes over like a cold rainy English day. The great cast does keep the interest high throughout.