This film starts off as a wisecracking rom-com and evolves into a spiritual journey. It is part fantasy and part romance. Its story reminds me of "Heaven Can Wait" and "Ghost".
Its genesis goes back to "A Guy Named Joe" (1943), directed by Victor Fleming. Based on a story with that same title, its screenplay was written by Dalton Trumbo. Those are very strong credentials. While making "Jaws", Steven Speilberg and Richard Dreyfuss traded quotes from the film. Both had seen it numerous times, and Spielberg said it was one of the films that inspired him to become a director.
In "Always", Richard Dreyfuss is Pete---a firefighting pilot who loves flying and taking risks. He works for Al (John Goodman), a lovable schlub who also fights fires from the sky. Holly Hunter is Dorinda, Pete's girlfriend. She can barely tolerate the dangers that come with Pete's job, but she knows how much he loves it.
Director Steven Spielberg hits all the right notes in this film, but its story might not appeal to everyone. The final film appearance by Audrey Hepburn is a special attraction and it elevates the second half, which becomes a contemplation on the nature of love, the concept of eternity, and the overcoming of emotional losses. Those more serious themes are tempered by the film's lighthearted, comedic tone, which continues throughout.
Though it may not be Spielberg's best work, this is a charming film that manages to be both funny and meaningful.
Its genesis goes back to "A Guy Named Joe" (1943), directed by Victor Fleming. Based on a story with that same title, its screenplay was written by Dalton Trumbo. Those are very strong credentials. While making "Jaws", Steven Speilberg and Richard Dreyfuss traded quotes from the film. Both had seen it numerous times, and Spielberg said it was one of the films that inspired him to become a director.
In "Always", Richard Dreyfuss is Pete---a firefighting pilot who loves flying and taking risks. He works for Al (John Goodman), a lovable schlub who also fights fires from the sky. Holly Hunter is Dorinda, Pete's girlfriend. She can barely tolerate the dangers that come with Pete's job, but she knows how much he loves it.
Director Steven Spielberg hits all the right notes in this film, but its story might not appeal to everyone. The final film appearance by Audrey Hepburn is a special attraction and it elevates the second half, which becomes a contemplation on the nature of love, the concept of eternity, and the overcoming of emotional losses. Those more serious themes are tempered by the film's lighthearted, comedic tone, which continues throughout.
Though it may not be Spielberg's best work, this is a charming film that manages to be both funny and meaningful.