Love Helen Mirren, who is something of a national treasure. Similarly, the subject matter and how the film was advertised (although being in the shadow of other films released at the same time, ones people are more likely to go and see, so was not advertised as much and wasn't done so enough) interested and appealed to me.
While not a great film, 'The Leisure Seeker' to me was a good lovely film and achieved at what it set out to do, in portraying the realities of people's final stages and appreciating people you are with more or even more. For me, it is much better than the mixed reviews it's gotten, don't agree personally that it's wasted by the story or has little to say. Have not read the book, having had no knowledge of it, but regardless of how it compares will compare 'The Leisure Seeker' as a standalone and as an overall film. To me that is a much fairer way to judge, especially when there are films or adaptations that may be bad adaptations of source material but are good to great films on their own merits, old and new.
Sure, surprises are very few, it is a predictable film. Especially the ending, one that is obvious too early and didn't ring true and somewhat contrived somehow to me.
Also felt that the political elements were heavy-handed and not necessary. The accidental joining of the anti-Donald Trump rally is amusing, but for somebody who has gotten sick and tired of constantly hearing about Trump (will briefly say he is one of my least favourite people ever), the political elements was something that the film could easily have done without.
On the other hand, Donald Sutherland and especially Helen Mirren are wonderful in the lead roles and have a very charming and touching chemistry together, their characters very rootable. The rest of the cast are solid, but their characters are nowhere near as interesting as the leads. There is the odd funny moment but lots of heart-wrenching ones, did reach for my tissue pack more than once. The two are balanced beautifully.
'The Leisure Seeker' is very nicely filmed and competently directed, allowing the leads to shine and mixing comedy and drama with little problem. The music fits well and the script not only achieves delivering on both the comedy and drama but also as aforementioned balancing them together. The story is charming, sweet and poignant, with thought-provoking moments and makes one feel inspired and appreciative. What it says may not be much new, but it doesn't not have anything to say. The pace never felt dull.
In summary, lovely though flawed film that is better than given credit for. 7/10 Bethany Cox
