Review of Starting Out in the Evening (2007) by Lindsay M — 26 Apr 2008
There can be certain, understated poignancy in the movies that makes such a connection, we cannot help but become enraptured; the funny thing is, it's not always even appropriate (in an applicable sort-of way). For me, it was the moment Leonard (Frank Langella) ran his hand over Heather's (Lauren Ambrose) body without touching her. It is a very simple scene but we know just enough about these characters- not too much- to fully appreciate it's subtlety.
These two characters have one of the most beautiful, and equally uneven, relationships I have ever seen, simply because they are patient with each other.
Leonard is an aging novelist, having trouble finish his last novel. Frank Langella plays this man so sincerely and completely, it truly feels transcendant of acting. The same can be said of Lauren Ambrose's performance: to be so young, her maturity as an actress is very prevalent in her character's blaring ambition and subsequent immaturity.
Being that the film is about writers, director Andrew Wagner could have subjected these characters to melodramatic frustration. But no: this movie is smart and lets the characters be rough-edged and complicated without being condescending.
The most unfortunate thing about a movie like "Starting Out in the Evening", is most people would not find this story entertaining at all; I, myself, even felt the beginning moved slowly, but I promise it blooms into a wonderful story about age and life, love and admiration, and the transitions between them all.
It's an absorbing piece of work and a very memorable film in the midst of superficial mediocrity.
This review of Starting Out in the Evening (2007) was written by Lindsay M on 26 Apr 2008.
Starting Out in the Evening has generally received positive reviews.
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