Bella

It is hard to love film today. Most releases seem to have been written by management groups seeking to maximize profits with no attention to what used be called "art for art's sake." Today that expression almost is an anachronism, and so we have multiple comic book films, vampires, torture porn, issues surrounding virginity, serial killers, chainsaws and aliens--preferably all in one film. This movie explores human emotions. It is not perfect but it tries and succeeds in profiling two people seeking to cope with all the stresses that individuals face--as well as life's unexpected joys. Some critics call it a maudlin tearjerker; I think they have just forgotten how enjoyable a film can be with no guns, car chases or sex. The male star in particular is charismatic and the female lead is right. Watching this film is a restorative experience in the ability of movies to convey the joys and crises with which men and women live their lives. Is it idealized and not politically correct? Absolutely. Is it compelling and enjoyable and skillfully made? Absolutely.