Review of A Good Year (2006) by Theta S — 19 Jan 2011

Okay, I admit it, this film wasn't on my immediate viewing list. In fact, I saw this film by chance one Christmas evening when there was nothing on the television.

Russell Crowe plays ruthless London Stock Exchange trader, Max Skinner, a man with few... actually, I'll rephrase that no redeeming features. He does what he can to "make a killing" on the Exchange by his own set of rules, has little time or respect for his colleagues and is a serial womaniser.

Upon the news that his uncle, portrayed by Albert Finney, has passed away, Max becomes the only known heir to his uncle's vineyard in the Provence region of France. A piece of news which Max treats in his usual avaricious fashion... basically, he wants to sell the vineyard!!!

What follows is a tale of not only stuttering sat-navs, a battle of wills with the man who looks after his uncle's vines and the local cafe owner, pratfalls into empty swimming pools and insulting cyclists, but also a tale of the positive qualities of family, friendship, love and basically slowing down from the rat race.

Crowe is brilliant as Max - not only as the version who has no positive qualities whatsoever but also the version who gains redemption through the qualities mentioned above.

Albert Finney delivers a rich, fruity cameo performance as Max's uncle. His screen time is limited, but you feel an impact of the character.

The leading ladies are also important to the film and to the character of Max. Without ruining the plot, for those who haven't seen the film, Abbie Cornish plays a key role as a character who becomes important to Max's life whilst Marion Cotillard delivers a great performance opposite Crowe as Fanny Chenal, a person who is playfully combative with Max in her early exchanges and becomes a credible romantic lead.

Having read the Peter Mayle book, there are differences between the book and the script, but unlike some instances where this appears to have been done to satisfy a director's or production company's ego, the plot changes in the film serve to give focus to the story and character development. That said, the script is pretty formulaic and points to the film's inevitable conclusion as soon as Max arrives in Provence.

The direction by Scott and the cinematography is beautiful. Very much a travel agent's dream, so much so that you could almost expect a scene with the words, "Welcome To Provence" emblazoned on it.

The soundtrack is also a character which helps the viewer chill out in tandem with the cinematography.

If you're looking a full bodied film with character, kind of like a good wine, then this film is for you.

Not quite a bottle of high brand champagne, but not a bottle of plonk either.