Jane O'Brien

Hummmmm … what is it about this movie that intrigues me and keeps me watching from time to time? I don't recall even hearing about it when it first came out. The story … so silly at the start and then suddenly you're captivated by a fun, off-beat romp. The film belongs to Kevin Kline. Reading old reviews it's hard to believe the critics are referring to the same movie. So cynical even back then. The thrust of the movie is glimpsed at each transition … both actors skilled at revealing their character's vulnerabilities in a mere glance. The love scene on the train … not many convey so vividly the surprise or dilemma realized by the male lead (sic Clark Gable in It Happened One Night) -- now, what do I do? Kevin Kline does it so well. He's a desperate man. But, he's changed. Now the real story begins. Not a lot of flash, but it holds your interest. The secondary characters, French film actors and others offer solid performances. A light-hearted farce set in Paris and the wine region of southeast France and the Cote d'Azur with a twist at the end that's both sweet and weighty at the same time. If you need something to cheer you during these sorry times this is it. Stick around to hear a singing Kevin Kline and Van Morrison's Someone Like You as the credits role. Movie soundtrack, A+.