Review of Starting Out in the Evening (2007) by Daniel K — 31 Jul 2009

3: The first time around, I did not recognize the significance of the title until the final scene of the film, at which time it became incredibly obvious. This was a very good thing; it made it that much more effective at the end, which is ever so important to a picture.

It was an unusually awkward and literary film. As feature films must, it managed to create the illusion of intimacy and growth over the 100+ minutes it played. Langella gives a great performance that is both meaningful and significant.

I felt it wasn't towering the first time around, but after a second biewing it has definitely started to grow on me. He certainly seems to have a hit a great point in his career where he is able to play some of the choicest roles out there.

He is certainly supported by a stellar cast. The actors are certainly not afraid to make themselves seem ridiculous and awkward, which greatly adds to the overall effect of the film. It's the kind of film I feel watch over and over again, and this second viewing definitely did not disapoint.

The NYC details and characterizations are enough to make it extremely enjoyable and interesting, but I don't quite love it. This is a very high 3; I considered a 3.5, but something is holding me back.