I had not read Jack Weyland's short novel CHARLY until the day before seeing the film. I had read the local film critics clever put downs ('CHARLY' Pours Syrup Over Green Jell-O wrote Sean Means of the Salt Lake Tribune). Utah is supposed to be the Jell-O capitol of the world -- and then add syrup to that! Hmmmm -- I guess I must like green Jell-O and syrup! The book was nice but certainly not deep. As for the film: Jack Weyland, in an interview with the Deseret News, said: "I'm finally satisfied with the story. This is how I originally envisoned it when I was writing my screenplay." Back in 1980 Wayland had attempted a CHARLY screenplay. When there was no interest he turned it into a novel that became a surprise "hit" among Latter-day Saint readers (mainly teenagers) -- and has remained popular for some 20 years. Now first time director, Adam Thomas Anderegg, using a fine script adaptation by Janine Whetten Gilbert, has turned CHARLY into a deeply moving story of love and faith! Salt Lake actress Heather Beers, in her first film lead, is a major find! She is exceptional -- making the character of Charly come to life. Jeremy Elliott, who has appeared in a couple of major roles in LDS related films, plays Sam, who at first is overwhelmed by Charly, then comes to love her. He is excellent -- just right. (He has been greatly criticized by the two local newspapers -- BUT in my opinion they are WRONG!) "Real Love Stories Have No Ending" is the catch-line used by EXCEL Entertainment Group, who also released Richard Dutcher's GOD'S ARMY and BRIGHAM CITY as well as THE OTHER SIDE OF HEAVEN. The film lives up to the catch-line in every way. Memebers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints should find this a special moving-going experience. This film will also appeal to anyone who appreciates a decent, clean love story. I'll return to the theatre to re-see this film -- and look forward to eventually purchasing it on DVD!
