On Valentine's Day

"On Valentine's Day" is the central film in Horton Foote's semi-autobiographical trilogy that also includes "Courtship" and "1918." It is a nearly verbatim retelling of his stage play "Valentine's Day," and the sets and costumes beautifully transport the viewer back to the days of homefront World War I. Foote's central characters, newlyweds Horace and Elizabeth Robideaux, are acted with what might be termed "British" sensitivity (high praise!), and even his subsidiary characters are fascinating -- particularly Uncle George and Cousin Bobby. Though leisurely (some might say "stagy") in director Ken Harrison's affectionate realization, "On Valentine's Day" remains a gripping narrative. In the context of the filmed trilogy, it becomes much more: a shattering experience peopled by some of Horton Foote's most indelible characters.