kne_2011

I am a horse lover that randomly clicked on this movie knowing nothing about it. I wasn't expecting your typical horse movie from the synopsis, but this was ehhhh not what I expected. It really doesn't have a lot to do with horses, and when it does, it's not exactly the type of story a horse lover wants to see, but I'm not faulting it for that. It is a tragic and tough look at poverty and the real world. The acting is good, but there is nothing uplifting or happy about the story. For me, parts seemed to drag. I ended up skipping through the last 30 minutes or so. Overall, it's a good watch if you enjoy being sad and slightly bored. Anyone looking for a horse movie should skip.

I read the novel, which is a collection of letters between the characters, when it first came out. I really enjoyed the film! It has the same feel as the book, which makes sense as the author is also the writer and director. If you haven't read the book, I can see where you may feel it is a bit jumpy.

The acting is great, Hollander is my favorite actor and I always enjoy James Caan as well. They work well together and I really enjoyed their scenes. The supporting cast is also charismatic.

The story is, again, enhanced by having read the book I think. We're looking into the lives of these characters, and the events take a realistic approach in not giving a big resolution. I feel this enforces the principle that time goes on, and nothing is ever wrapped up in a big tidy bow forever.

Overall it is a sweet film about friendship, family, love, growing old, and death. I think it teaches a few timely lessons. It's an easy way to pass a couple of hours.