My First Love

A feelgood Valentine for the over-40 (50?) set, this romantic tale offers nothing that hasn't been done before, but is offered here with such a deft touch and with such command of nuance that it will win your heart - provided that you are in the proper age bracket. The emotions ring true, even if some of the plot is a bit contrived. Bea Arthur masterfully conveys the needs, fears, uncertainties and tentativeness of a widow just marking time until she decides that the best part of her life does not necessarily belong to the past. The overt sentimentality that might spoil such a story is carefully avoided here. A strong supporting cast contributes notably.