I have to believe that the emotional chord struck in me is the reason that I liked it as much as I did. If it hadn't been for that I suspect that the film would have fallen flat, sinking beneath the weight of over-the-top sentimentality and the manipulative way that it plays with emotions. It is funny how I connected with what it seeks to do while simultaneously recognizing its significant shortcomings as a complete film.
What should you take with you into the film? Well, if you have lost someone expect to find it a touching, if unreal, examination of loss and a way to deal with grief. If you go in expecting a good movie and do not have that personal connection to make, be prepared to find it a little too manipulative and also a little bit too long. At times the movie seems to drag on with no end in sight. It definitely could have done with a little trimming.
Bottom line. The performances are decent, but it is definitely going to be a love it or hate it reaction. The direction is rather pedestrian and the result is rather long-winded. I made an emotional connection to the story that must be present in order to get anything out of it; if you can't do that you will likely be checking your watch and wishing you went to Enchanted.
Mildly Recommended.
Article comments
1 - Cait
Enjoyed reading your critique about PSILY, Chris Beaumont - in fact, when I first saw your name, I thought you were a female! Many of the reviews I've read since this movie put in an appearance have been blatantly disparaging and sarcastically dismissive - and unfortunately, it seemed to me that the preponderance of those penning such commentary were male. Thus, it was refreshing to read such an objective assessment from you as to the merits as well as the shortcomings of this film. I've seen it twice now and have enjoyed both viewings equally. However, I do take exception that the 'plot was ludicrous' and that the movie was 'hopelessly sentimental'. Oh, and by the by, what's wrong with being an 'unapologetic tearjerker'? (I think we can all use a good tearjerker every now and again to remind us of those core values in life that ultimately make it worth living...)
2 - Katlin Dunn
I'm a huge Gerard Butler fan and even though I liked the film (mainly because of him)I have to agree it could have used better editing and much more of Jeffrey Dean Morgan.