Swing Away

I went to see a screening of this great film a few months ago. Without giving anything away, I think it's fine to mention that it really captures different aspects of the Greek condition, measures for success, and a few other things. What I loved about the movie is that behind all the humor, picaresque scenes, and romantic touches is a basic morality tale that really hits home. There are unexpected heroic elements in many of the characters, regardless of their social class, training, etc.

(I can't say much more than this or I'll set off a spoiler alert. If you haven't seen it yet, please plan to!)

Swing Away is a movie that has no intention of reinventing cinema or storytelling, sure, but what it does it does beautifully. I mean you had me at Shannon Elizabeth on a Greek island, but I love so many things about this movie. A fantastic cast, and cast of characters, a well told tale, enough quirkiness without losing essential humanity or making a parody of the "simple" Greek villagers...

But perhaps most of all I love that the hero's journey is shared quite equally between multiple characters. Perhaps the real hero in the end is Renos Haralambidis' Panayiotis, the lawyer reduced to managing a failed golf course, unloved by the town he lives in and almost entirely alone at the beginning of the film. Haralambidis gives his character such weary pathos and lost hope that I find it impossible not to cheer him on as he regains his sense of dignity.

And then of course there is the rare chance to see Shannon Elizabeth shine for a full hour and a half. She's in most every scene here. Hollywood so often lets her talent go to waste and this is a great reminder of what we all miss out on. She has the potential to be such a classic movie star, if only producers would let her get past being 'That Hot Chick from American Pie'.

Swing Away is a movie I will keep coming back to when I need a shot of hope. And if you're looking for romance, you'll have to wait patiently but it will be worth it. How many films can make that claim?

Not so uplifting because the plot is utterly predictable and tired. As far as zero-to-hero films go, this is one of the weakest that i've had to endure. The acting is as wooden as a golf club. The setting of this movie is quaint which is the reason why its a max. of 2 starts. Don't waste your time with this.

A decent,fun to watch family movie.Nothing we haven't seen before,follows all the norms faithfully and in the end leaves you with a sweet taste!!!!

The story is formulaic, but the characters and surroundings makes this a warm, family friendly movie. Themes of redemption, family, loyalty, mentorship and faith are all woven into the story. Standouts include the main lead characters, especially the Greek Orthodox priest. Shannon Elizabeth is a very effective lead and carries the movie, and John O' Hurley chews up the scenery as an over the top megalomaniac villain. The scenes are gorgeous. Makes one want to take a golfing vacation to Greece!