Review of A Single Man (2009) by Nicki M — 01 Jan 2011

Definitely did not live up to the hype. While I cannot fault the cast, filming and gorgeous 60's setting, it was - dare I say it - dull viewing. I am not sure why exactly. On paper, and for the first few minutes, really seemed like a good movie that I would enjoy, but as it dragged on and on, found myself more and more distanced from the characters.

On the plus side...Colin Firth is fine as George, Julianne Moore excellent (her Charley was really very beautiful and the scene of her and George where she airs her frustrations at him was probably my favourite in the movie), Nicholas Hoult, also good (although is it just me who thinks he looks here like a young Tom Cruise... I am not sure that is a good thing exactly!). Also nice to see the always lovely Ginnifer Goodwin in a small role, and Ryan Simpkins as little Jennifer, kind of sinister and an interesting addition to the movie.

I don't want to totally pan it, for sure, there are worse movies out there and it handles an important topic, but for me, personally, found it unengaging, and by the time the final scene I happened, I may have muttered "FFS" under my breath. I can fully appreciate the irony of how it ended, but it doesn't mean I found it enjoyable!

Revolutionary Road is a movie with similarities, although, obviously not with the gay angle, that I found a much more rewarding experience.