Lovely, Still: DVD Review
Lovely, Still
Rating: M
Released by Vendetta Films
Set against a backdrop of Christmas, this is the story of Martin
Landau's Robert, an elderly gent who's working in a supermarket and
who lives alone.
One day, he meets Mary (Ellen Burstyn) and spurred on by the
potential for romance, the pair begin to date.
And that's really all I can say about the plot of this film - as
you really don't want to know too much more about it to be
honest.
Director Fackler's created a wondrous piece which will leave some
on the verge of tears and may even melt the most cynical of hearts
as this romantic tale plays out - but it's in the casting where
he's really triumphed; both leads have wonderfully expressive
faces, etched with the lines of life, hopes, regret and
possibility. Theirs is a courtship of confusion, simplicity and
above all heart.
Landau is an absolute stand-out as Robert; scenes of him asking his
shop manager for help about going on a date, coupled with close up
shots of his daily routine in front of the mirror are quirky,
different and engaging from the get go. Coupled with Burstyn,
there's a warmth and ease to both their performances which will
have you thinking about grandparents, parents and lost loved ones
as the story plays out. Throw in some solid support from Banks and
particularly Scott, and this story is a compelling watch from
beginning to end (even if you are a little cynical, it's hard not
to be won over).
Suffice to say there is a twist in this tale of old love and it's
one which really whips the carpet out from under your viewing eyes
and demands you watch again to pick up the intricacies of the plot
- but in this day and age of instant gratification and visual
satisfaction, it's commendable to see story comes first.
Tugging at the heartstrings and leaving you with a warm glow,
Lovely, Still is a perfect two-hander, beautifully played and
engaging; it's also one which will command you curl up with your
loved one afterwards.
Rating: 8/10
