Review of Last Chance Harvey (2008) by Jason H — 28 Jul 2009

While on the surface we have a typical romantic comedy, we really end up with so much more. What's different? Well it's the indredible performances of Hoffman and Thompson. Nothing against the Kate Hudson's and Matthew McConaghey's of the world but the presence of these world class actors carry this movie past a good rom-com to a very good movie.

..period. It is also refreshing to see a film about people who aren't between the ages of 18-35 and unrealistically attractive falling in love, but about people who one might mistake for actual people forming a relationship in a time in their life where finals and clubbing isn't a vital part of it.

I know that might be strange coming from someone who fits in the demographic I just criticized but people of all ages, looks, shapes, and sizes fall in love and as a film viewer it is amazingly refreshing when someone new and well done is injected into a mostly tired genre.

Even when the movie falls into typical rom-com traps, it works well. The speech given by Hoffman's character at the wedding reception is a great moment for him and for the film. A truly touching, charming, enjoyable film that excells further than it has any right to.

Great film.