This quaint, British romantic comedy film from director Richard Curtis was released
on November 1st, 2013 here in the United States.
The fragmented plot follows Domhnall Gleeson as a young man, hopelessly in love, who discovers
- by way of an amusing lecture from his father - that he can travel through time, within
the events of his own lifetime.
The $12-million dollar picture is well on its way to earning back five-times that amount,
and for good reason: it's a unique story with endearing original characters.
Domhnall is perfect as the nervous and hesitant temporal wanderer... eventually falling head
over heels for Rachel McAdams, so much so that he repeatedly attempts to backtrack his
mistakes, a-la "Groundhog Day" to ensure a perfect relationship.
However, he's quick to remind the audience in helpful voice-over narration that, "All
the time traveling in the world can't make someone love you."
In her third movie as a time-traveler's love interest, McAdams' exhibits playful chemistry
between her co-star, making for some fun and realistic moments, as Domhnall's time-jumping
threatens to recursively damage their relationship.
I couldn't help but be reminded of the Star Trek Voyager episode, "Year Of Hell", which
explores a very similar concept of a time traveler's noble, but fruitless effort to
fix his own life, who only ever worsens the situation.
Later, a montage showing their improving relationship set to the sounds of a subway band is especially
effective at wrapping up the first phase of the story.
And that's when things transform from a quirky, light-hearted rom-com involving time travel
to a much deeper and emotional struggle about dealing with decisions, and taking care of
your family.
Where the film treads next is unexpected, but powerfully resonating, especially scenes
involving Bill Nighy in a really wonderful performance.
Although disjointed with the narrative-shift, the 123-minute picture remains well paced
and compelling throughout; resulting in a great date movie for all couples willing to
brave the potential heartache of the film's final act.
While the R-rated drama ends on a spoon-fed montage, very reminiscent of "Love Actually",
it is a delightful, adorable, and emotional journey worth experiencing more than once.
"About Time", contains "Unique and powerful love stories."
Now let's read some of your reviews for this film from the YouTube comments.
"About Time" on the rate-o-matic... an EIGHT and a NINE.
Although you enjoyed the performances, and the premise, you faulted it for being predictable,
and scored it a GREAT.
I was really surprised by this picture, especially on an emotional level.
I thought it was AWESOME.