RETURN TO ME (2000)

 

Directed By: Bonnie Hunt Written By: Bonnie Hunt & Don Lake  Story By: Bonnie Hunt, Don Lake, Andrew Stern and Samantha Goodman Cinematography: Laszlo Kovacs  Editor: Garth Craven

Cast: David Duchovny, Minnie Driver, David Alan Grier, Carroll O’Connor, Robert Loggia, Bonnie Hunt, James Belushi, Eddie Jones, Brian Howe, Marianne Muellerleile, Joely Richardson 

A man who falls in love with the woman who received his wife's heart must decide which woman it is who holds his heart.

This film is a total surprise. As one wouldn’t think too much of it at first,  it comes across as an all-time classic 

This film is charming. Above all else. Like its co-writer and director Bonnie Hunt’s stand-up comedy it’s inoffensive, chuckle-worthy, classic, and full of character. As well as full of characters. 

As it plays like a romantic comedy from the 1950s and stays wholesome. As even though it is modern it feels like it comes from a bygone era or the type of film They don’t make anymore. As the leads come across as real characters and never stars.

Though the film deals with a dark subject. The film stays lighthearted, cheerful, and energetic.

This for me is the first time that David Duchovny comes across as a full-fledged leading man in a movie. He is quite good and soulful. He even manages to put out a few laughs.

Minnie Driver is wonderful, beautiful, and down to earth in the film. She is practically the girl next door in this film. As well as hilarious. 

The sounding board of her family and the regulars at the restaurant are hilarious and give the film a special touch. Especially seeing the old-school stars given something to do. 

That is the strength of the film. You are so interested in all of the characters. Even the minor ones that no matter what happens you will still be entertained. That is how nourishing this film is as it shows everything and every one was handled with care.

The film could have easily based itself on the story and plot but while it is around it quickly takes a backseat to the characters and situations.

This is a film that is rewatchable each time I watch it. Not only do I fall in love with it all over again. As I suspect most who watch it will, but it holds up and impresses. As it feels like an old-school classic. Which is rare as they don’t make films like this anymore. Yes, it’s more in the movie logic cute romance side. 

The plot gets you in the door, but the characters keep you interested. No matter how formulaic it gets. It introduces something a bit unexpected. The film has a personality bit an extreme one but one more subtle.

GRADE: A