Review of The Last Station (2009) by Eva W — 03 Mar 2010

I saw this movie just so that I could say that I had seen all the movies, actors, directors and screenplays nominated for the major Oscar categories. Although I recently enjoyed Christopher Plummer in Dr. Parnassus and I am an avid Giamatti and Mirren fan, I expected the story to bore me - BOY WAS I WRONG. Although there was not too much of a story - it could be summarized in less than 5 minutes - I thoroughly enjoyed this film and my friend and I left the theater trying to decide which Tolstoy book we were going to tackle. The strongest part of the film was the relationship between Tolstoy and his Countess wife (Plummer & Mirren) with much deserved Oscar nods. Their love always won out even after some of the best spousal arguements and drama queen moments I have seen in quite a while.

Paul Giamatti as "the villian" was terrific - adding more comedy to the film. There were many moment shwne the entire audience was laughing outloud and I think that it was unexpected from everyone - which made it even more enjoyable.

I am a bit puzzled by the James McAvoy character and his storyline. I suppose that he was just included to show how someone could be so enamored of Tolstoy, yet so conflicted with his own beliefs - but honestly - his character was arbitrary to me.

All in all - DON'T MISS THIS ONE - it's beautiful and funny and inspiring!