Review of American Friends (1991) by Marian S — 07 Dec 2012

''We will achieve nothing as a species if we cannot adapt.''.

Francis Ashby, a senior Oxford don on holiday alone in the Alps, meets holidaying American Caroline and her companion Elinor, the blossoming Irish-American girl she adopted many years before. Ashby finds he enjoys their company together, particularly that of Elinor, and both the women are drawn to him. Back at Oxford he is nevertheless taken aback when they arrive unannounced. Women are not allowed in the College grounds, let alone the rooms. Indeed any liaison, however innocent, is frowned on.

Michael Palin: Reverend Francis Ashby.

Alfred Molina: Oliver Syme.

Susan Denaker: Mrs. Cantrell.

American Friends is a movie that tells of a bygone era that isn't as long as it seems.

The difference in social ideals compared today is always fascinating.

Michael Palin has proven before he is more than a comedian from seeing Brazil to a Fish Called Wanda. American Friends is also an example indeed.

Loved the scientific side of life in the lectures. Alfred Molina gives a varied performance even having a scruffy beard to boot.

On a whole the film does have a feel of being something of TV standing as opposed to something of grandeur in filming.

Granted I'm an Englishman that enjoys his period flicks and loves history so it gains more prestige with me for its wonderful costumes and quaint locations.

A simple tale of love which I admit has been done before. A good effort.

Education in love.