Review of Last Chance Harvey (2008) by Rick B — 12 Jan 2010

A very sweet film. The acting, as would be expected, is superb from the leads (Dustin Hoffman & Emma Thompson) but also from the supporting cast as well. I really felt the sense of loneliness and failure that was plaguing each of the lead characters.

The build-up of their separate stories was very compelling, getting me excited to see them finally meet. Their "falling for each other" happens very naturally and believably. It reminded me a bit of "Before Sunrise" (the European setting helped in capturing some of that same romantic feel) but obviously the characters are at very different points in their lives in this film and it was refreshing to see a romance unfold without the usual youthful passion we see in most films.

We also get a bigger picture of the rest of their lives (with just the right amount of attention to subplots with other characters) and we continue to learn more about the leads up to the very end. Finally, there is a good dose of humor throughout the film, delivered expertly by the two stars.

The movie left me feeling hopeful about the possibility of 2nd chances in various relationships.