Review of Brief Encounter (1945) by Grant S — 20 Apr 2015
Engaging drama.
Romantic dramas are second only to horror movies in terms of formulaic plot and lack of originality. Brief Encounter is reasonably original, especially for its time, in that both the man and woman in the relationship are married, and not to each other.
The movie starts well, showing how they first meet, how they start to see more of each other, some amusing incidents along the way, and how they fall in love. But they're married, so you know this can't be a simple relationship. You think all along: can this have a happy ending, and what is a happy ending in this context? Do you even approve of the relationship?
All this told with some wonderful old English settings, 1940s sensibilities and charm.
Unfortunately, after this intriguing dilemma, the movie then drifts for a period and then we have a conclusion that is a damp squib. Writer Noel Coward and director David Lean pull their punches and the ending feels like a cop-out. Very disappointing, especially after all that went before it.
Good performances by Trevor Howard and Celia Johnson in the lead roles.
This review of Brief Encounter (1945) was written by Grant S on 20 Apr 2015.
Brief Encounter has generally received very positive reviews.
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