Don't get me wrong. This is a good movie. But I sort of feel like there was an archery target, they shot their arrow, and it missed the bulls-eye. Close, but not quite. I felt that way when I first watched it (back when it first came to cable), and I feel that way again now, a decade later.
The story is a good one, and based on a real story. The settings and photography are excellent. And I guess the best compliment I can give this film is that I would liked to have met these people and visited that village.
Now as to the acting, while the lead may have been Helen Mirren, I think the biggest kudos should go to Penelope Wilton. I sort of discovered her more recently in "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel", where she plays a rather unlikable character, but she's so much better here. Sort of a woman whose life is bittersweet.
Mirren is good here, but not exceptional. Several of the other actresses are more interesting in their parts.
Should you watch this film? Yes, I'd recommend it. But it won't end up on my DVD shelf.
The story is a good one, and based on a real story. The settings and photography are excellent. And I guess the best compliment I can give this film is that I would liked to have met these people and visited that village.
Now as to the acting, while the lead may have been Helen Mirren, I think the biggest kudos should go to Penelope Wilton. I sort of discovered her more recently in "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel", where she plays a rather unlikable character, but she's so much better here. Sort of a woman whose life is bittersweet.
Mirren is good here, but not exceptional. Several of the other actresses are more interesting in their parts.
Should you watch this film? Yes, I'd recommend it. But it won't end up on my DVD shelf.