There's 'something about this movie'! It has captured my fascination differently than most movies. I have an emotional memory of the story that usually is reserved for beloved pets, or vulnerable (and 'emotionally available') people I've interacted with. Weird huh?
Somehow the story itself and Keanu's acting worked (for me). The sub-plots are mixed: parts I could relate to, other parts required suspension of disbelief; my thoughts were, "ummm, can't imagine this happening in real life but as long as it adds to the ultimate storyline, I'll accept this in this instance". I'm referring specifically to the social/cultural expectations and the willingness of an outsider to cooperate with them. But, the family dynamics represent customs unfamiliar to me. Because of that, I had a level of acceptance I probably would not with a culture more like the one I was raised in (White Anglo-Saxon America).
The underlying theme from two strangers meeting on a cross-country bus throughout the movie was a study in the undeniable strength of personal relationships. Romance is undeniably present but it's so much more than just a romantic flick.. Romantic plots are as old as time and have been done to the point of overload. What grabbed my attention was the intent each character had. Against family and cultural obstacles, (not to mention the secret they kept from the woman's family), they were laser-focused on being together no matter the challenges. The story centered on a couple willing to do anything to keep their promise to each other. Their strength grew as their commitment deepened.
I found myself really caring about this couple's ordeal; rooting for them and finally feeling relief at the end. The production value was only slightly above mediocre and one or two cast members were unremarkable, Keanu Reeves was incredibly effective. I totally believed his character portrayal and the story was sincere. This flick was different but as I said, it really moved me and I'll always have a fond and positive opinion of it.
Somehow the story itself and Keanu's acting worked (for me). The sub-plots are mixed: parts I could relate to, other parts required suspension of disbelief; my thoughts were, "ummm, can't imagine this happening in real life but as long as it adds to the ultimate storyline, I'll accept this in this instance". I'm referring specifically to the social/cultural expectations and the willingness of an outsider to cooperate with them. But, the family dynamics represent customs unfamiliar to me. Because of that, I had a level of acceptance I probably would not with a culture more like the one I was raised in (White Anglo-Saxon America).
The underlying theme from two strangers meeting on a cross-country bus throughout the movie was a study in the undeniable strength of personal relationships. Romance is undeniably present but it's so much more than just a romantic flick.. Romantic plots are as old as time and have been done to the point of overload. What grabbed my attention was the intent each character had. Against family and cultural obstacles, (not to mention the secret they kept from the woman's family), they were laser-focused on being together no matter the challenges. The story centered on a couple willing to do anything to keep their promise to each other. Their strength grew as their commitment deepened.
I found myself really caring about this couple's ordeal; rooting for them and finally feeling relief at the end. The production value was only slightly above mediocre and one or two cast members were unremarkable, Keanu Reeves was incredibly effective. I totally believed his character portrayal and the story was sincere. This flick was different but as I said, it really moved me and I'll always have a fond and positive opinion of it.
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