I was shocked that this movie was on Lifetime television. It was a wonderful movie that I feel could have been a strong theatrical release. The writing is superb, the acting first rate, and the beauty of Paris explodes from the screen.
The most obvious strength of this movie is the casting of Jacqueline Bisset and Linda Hamilton in the leading roles. Both are excellent actors and their on-screen chemistry is wonderful to behold. Hamilton plays a modern American woman who has success, but has no passion in her life. This movie is about her first discovery of that passion. Bisset is the worldly woman who knows everything about love except how to achieve it for herself. What is fascinating about this movie is that they teach each other, in ways you would not expect at all.
The script is positively brilliant. You'll find that you recall scenes from this movie for years to come. I particularly liked the "teddy" and the "wine tasting". You'll see what I'm talking about if you watch the film. The script sets up intense moments, then brings them back to Earth gently. It's a perfect mix of sensuality (not sex!) and light comedy. Both of the lead characters grow and change in important ways.
It's not perfect. Some of the situations are a bit cliche, but the strong overall structure allows these moments to slide by quickly. The production cuts some corners here and there, particularly on location shooting, but they got good bang for their buck. I highly recommend seeing this movie.
