Beckys 2008-10-31
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Someone said "guilty pleasure" -- yes, that's how I feel, too. Not a great work of art, but some great moments. Biggest downside: I didn't feel Jaclyn Smith portrayed Faye as a strong enough woman to be the "first female director" (never saw the iron hand under the velvet glove).
Upside for her: She's great with the sensitive moment. The scenes where she changes her mind about taking Ward back, at the Santa Barbara house, are understated and beautifully played. Michael Ontkean was believable from young man to grandfather -- even if Ward's role in the story was more facilitator of plot progression than actual character.
Some of the best scenes: Big brother Lionel with a very young Anne at Christmas. Shy Lionel when he first encounters Paul. Nervous Lionel telling Faye that he's gay. Terrified Lionel when Ward finds him with his boyfriend. Resolute Lionel with Ward in the kitchen at Greg's funeral. Big brother Lionel with his funny but oh, such bad timing comment on Val's dress for the Oscars. Delighted Lionel when he & John arrive at the Santa Barbara house to surprise Faye. Devastated Lionel in the hospital with Faye & Ward. Gentle Lionel approaching Paul again. All done with the light Flanigan touch - no unnecessary histrionics there, just pure and true emotion. Whenever he came on screen, the other actors seemed to ramp up for some of the best scenes of the movie. He had a chemistry with each actor that seemed to challenge them to give a bit more, that put a little extra believability into their relationships.
The actresses that played Anne & Val were good, especially as they got older. I particularly liked Val's goodbye to her leading man after he dropped her off one night. Great chemistry, great moment. And Anne did a great job as the quiet child, with a fantastic moment in the garden with Faye towards the end. So much feeling in just a gaze! The casting director chose wisely, finding actors who could play younger than themselves as well as older -- I didn't feel the need for "suspension of disbelief."
The story itself had some holes where I felt like some important things had been left out, but hey, it was pretty long as it was. And now I'm off to read the book.
Overall, I'd recommend borrowing it if you want a good "movie of the week" chick flick ... and buy it if you are a fan of any of the actors. As a "great movie" I have to give it 3 stars, but for pure indulgence? Go for it.
