I must confess to approaching the movie with a bit of trepidation, even given it's classic status and pleasingly finding myself not being disappointed. Granted, by today's standards the film's plot may be a tad generic but it is more than made up for with Dalton Trumbo's winning screenplay and the superb, charming performances from it's two leads. The movie's denouement I think is about as close to perfect as one could hope for, with the subtle nuances in their body language, visual glances and verbal exchanges making for an emotively palpable lead up to a poignant, heart-felt finale.
I don't know if the film is depressing although there is a tinge of melancholy but to some extent it's uplifting as well. Both protagonists have both been less than satisfied with their lot in life and having found one one another their life inextricably changes, arguably for the better. She becomes a better princess by forgoing protocol and adopting change while he becomes less cynical and has a slightly less self-centred perspective on life and has learned to love in a way he never knew how, and perhaps someday he will again. It's a magnificent pay off and one that sublimely forgo's convention with class and dignity.
reply
share