Review of Love Comes Lately (2007) by Matthew S — 16 Apr 2016

It seems something always brings me back to Jan Schutte's 2007 film. Based upon three works by Isaac Bashevis Singer, the filmmaker does a great job of mixing the three into one. People unaware of Singer's work beyond Streisand's almost experimental re-working of his slight story, "Yentl, the Yeshiva Boy," will be surprised to discover what Schutte is able to create from these other works. When this film was initially released more than a few critics/viewers pointed out the annoyance that this adaptation is misleading of the great writer's work. I disagreed then and I disagree now. If anything, this movie might spark a viewer to seek out Singer's printed words.

There is a great deal more going on than what greets the eyes. This film is about a great deal more than a naughty Miami senior citizen. Ideas around love, commitment, sex, loneliness and death are all examined.

The late Otto Tausig gives an exemplary performance. It was one of the best given by an actor in 2007. The supporting cast provide excellent support for Tausig's work. Both Elizabeth Pena and Tovah Feldshuh bring forward their usual amazing work. But the supporting player who really surprises is Rhea Perlman. She gives what at first appears to be the obvious read of her character but is actually digging far deeper than expected.

"Love Comes Lately" is not a soft-sell movie. It is unto itself and really does not care what we think. It carries itself like a surly curmudgeon determined to get up flights of stairs without a walker. It may get a bit confused, sweat and even lose dignity -- but it pushes forward. This little movie leaves a mark.

I think it is just about one flight away from being brilliant. Not to be missed.