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Reviews
The Notebook (2004)
True Love Lasts a Lifetime
First of all, I knew a movie with Gena Rowlands and James Garner couldn't be bad. I have to say that this is probably James Garner's best work that I've seen. He captured the essence of his character to the max and his emotions seemed so real. Second of all, Gena Rowlands doesn't do bad movie. She was incredible and while the part was understated, her performances were so powerful they were heartbreaking. I literally ached for her character.
Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling were perfect in their roles of young lovers, torn apart by class distinction, war and doubts. Their story was pretty classic, boy smitten by girl, woos girl, wins girl, loses girl. But that's NOT the whole story, it's only the beginning.
I was impressed how the movie handled some life issues. Not to give anything away, but you will cry and you will see yourself in this story or at least someone you love. There is some suspense, definite fun and the drama is not over done at all. People actually clapped at the end of this movie; it was so good and so worth the price of a ticket! I cannot recommend this movie enough.
I think this is definitely Oscar material, especially for Gena Rowlands and James Garner. We'll see!
The Promise (1979)
Can You Keep a Promise?
The story isn't really unique, but it's the assemblage of players that makes it work so well. It's a love story, a story of deceit and a story of revenge, of sorts, that relies on more than one promise. The beginning is a montage that shows the viewer the uncomplicated, yet intense, love between two young college students. Enter the complication, a near-fatal car crash.
Then, enter mother. Beatrice Straight plays "matron" so well, it almost creeps one out. Authoritative, hard, selfish. One has to believe that the two lovers, Nancy (Kathleen Quinlan) and Michael (Stephen Collins) just couldn't be stopped had the car accident not shattered their lives. Fate intervened, choices had to be made, situations were controlled with undeniable uncaring. But life has a way of stepping in; destiny will not be driven from its path. The cast is perfect and the music is obvious, but not intrusive. This is a film I've watched several times and have never been disappointed in.
Perfect Romance (2004)
Combination of Internet and romantic courtship
Kathleen Quinlan makes the movie watchable. Her beauty hasn't faded, but has endured. She plays "Tess," the mother of "Jenny," who desperately needs a life after a tumultuous relationship. When Tess secretly decides to "meddle," she gets unexpected results. I admit it, I'm a sucker for romance and this was simple fare with a rewarding payoff. I'm not familiar with the other actors, but each seemed comfortable in their roles and very believable. The child actor was especially refreshing, as he was pivotal, yet not the center of attention very often. Altogether, "Perfect Romance" is a great way to spend a rainy, dreary night, because it will life your spirits and give you hope.