geoff-367
Did I see the same film as these other people? The movie's title comes from an old lawyer joke (told in the film): scientists experiment on lawyers because there are some things rat's just won't do. One of those things was to agree to star in this flat romantic comedy.As in many romcoms, the outcome is predictable from the very opening scenes. But getting there is, in this case, no fun at all. How can one like a film that suggests that a woman should sleep with a cad just because he's willing to embarrass himself a bit in public--especially when the embarrassment is a coldly calculated attempt to get her into bed? But that's not the worst of it. True, there are some funny moments, but all in all the movie is a bore. The lead characters are uninteresting and (except for Peter Capaldi) uncharismatic. Every major character in the film eventually establishes themselves as someone who is not to be trusted, if not a downright scumbag. And the number of (sadly predictable) plot coincidences must be some kind of record. You don't just have to suspend disbelief to see this movie, you have to throw it off the Burj Khalifa and then bury it in a fracking hole.
teri_2
Many of the critques I've read on this little movie claimed it was too cliched at the end...too mushy (for lack of a better word). I disagree 100%. Besides, aren't all the enjoyable romantic comedies a bit "mushy"...don't most of them end with the guy getting the girl? Isn't that the point? This film is so romantic, and sooo sweet. It brightened my day.
It's got a lot going for it. A great cast, though I thought Parker Posey was way over the top in her role as the "grieving widow". Charles Dance was fantastic as always, and James Frain & Natascha McElhone have beautiful chemistry together. I'd love to see them act together again. Their scenes are the most enjoyable in a movie full of enjoyable scenes. Also, it was lotsa fun to get a glimpse into the British Legal system...my, but they do have some strange customs. Though, I did find the black flowing robes and stiff white collars rather appealing :) It was a VERY British movie, with a very British cast, doing extremely British things, and for me, that was another big plus. I love all things British, and oddly enough, Irish as well.But the biggest plus for me was James Frain. Ever since I saw him in "Where the Heart Is" & "Nothing Personal", I've been a huge fan. It was so delightful to see him in English mode. I've seen him play so many characters from American to Spanish to Irish...but very few with his true native accent.If you love romance, and witty humor you'll adore this movie.
Cpridgeon
I have never been so entertained in my life. This movie is the best I have seen in a long time. James Frain is masterful as Jack Sullivan the dashing barrister and Natascha McElhone is exciteful as Kate(just Kate). Their on screen chemistry leaves you begging and pleading for more. You laugh, you'll delight and it will bring you happy tears of joy.
charlie-118
A clever little comedy with enough romance to sweeten it without descending into the realms of the sickeningly saccharine. James Frain and Natascha McElhone shine as the two leads - Frain is witty and charismatic while McElhone makes her character endearing and wonderful to watch. This talented duo manage to hold their own even against a dazzling supporting cast which does not have a single weak link. The script is well written, impeccably acted, and British humour at its best, yet it doesn't exclude anyone from outside our little island from the jokes. There is only one thing wrong with this film, and it is not the fault of the director, writer, or cast - that it has been seen by so few people! I only got the chance to see it when, in a fit of insomnia, I stayed awake all night watching film channels and stumbled across it at about 3am. I am dying to buy a copy of it yet, despite thorough searching on the net, I can't find one anywhere. (If anybody ever happens to read this - I know the odds are against me - and happens to know where I might get one from, please write to me and tell me). It is a brilliant little Britflick that deserves more recognition, and an example of what our film industry is capable of.
AD
