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    Brooklyn

    Reviewed by
    adamwatchesmovies@

    I’m not so jaded or insecure in my masculinity that I can’t watch a romantic film by myself and appreciate it. If someone had told me in January 2015 that one of the best films of the year was going to be a period piece drama about a woman separated by an ocean from her lover though, I would have given them an incredulous look. But now look at me, praising “Brooklyn” and kicking myself for not having the foresight to bringing a lady with me to the theatre. This is one terrific date movie.

    Set in 1952, Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan) is a young woman from a small town in southeast Ireland. Through a sister parish in the US, she immigrates to Brooklyn, NY where she begins a new life. While adjusting and feeling homesick, her debate over which life is best for her is complicated when she finds a boyfriend, Tony (Emory Cohen)

    I think the key with “Brooklyn” is that there aren’t a lot of extravagances. 1952 was a simpler time and if you ask me, that simplicity makes it very romantic. Eilis and Tony aren’t going to hop in bed on the first date. They’re not even going to kiss and won’t likely hold hands except when dancing. That’s the kind of thing that will happen later when they’ve been going out for a while and they’re certain that they know each other. It’s a believable romance and one that you feel is going to last (if they can get through the obstacles presented here) It’s not lust that’s bringing them together. It’s genuine affection. It’s a world without text messaging and phone calls are a rare thing. What does that mean? It means that to catch Eilis’ eye, Tony has to show up in person and walk her home. Not because he’s expecting anything to happen, but because he wants to her about her day and she’s interested in his. Isn’t that a mark of a romance that will last? Not wanting anything in return, and jumping through every hoop to get even a glimpse of the lady/fella you’re courting? I tell ya, I was smitten looking at this couple, particularly when you see them getting to know each other and laughing on their dates.

    There is conflict in the movie and to my relief it does not come from something as artificial as a villain. This isn’t some ridiculous Harlequin romance either where a plot about having to lie or deceive the other person and then having to redeem oneself once the secret is out will rear it’s ugly head. The “villain”, if there is one in the film, is the characters’ emotions. “Brooklyn” completely immerses you into this world and you understand how these people feel. You understand the pull that Eilis’ ancestral home has on her and you wonder if she’ll be able to resist it. Could these two people, despite having great chemistry and warming your heart as they waltz down the street conquer Eilis’ decision to completely abandon her family and previous life? It’s emotional and makes you wonder where the plot is going to go, but it’s genuine all the way through. It’s neither melodramatic not distant, as there are some nice bits of humour throughout, the kind of thing that anyone can relate to because we’ve all been to a new job or in a new school trying to make friends with a bunch of strangers.

    I’m certain that there are plenty of guys who would look at the premise and go “Pfft, I’m not seeing this, I’d rather see ‘Point Break’ or ‘Daddy’s Home’”. YOU FOOL! I tell them. You’re not going to impress anyone seeing those dumb movies. What you want to do is take your significant other to “Brooklyn”. Why? Because no one would expect you to. All the performances are so earnest and the drama so genuine that no matter who you take with you, they would have to be the most cynical, grouchy, black-hearted stone statue not to be tempted to take your hand at most 20 minutes in. You’ll earn yourself a million brownie points. I bet you’ll like it too because these are some really likeable leads. If they don’t reach for your fingers, then you just did yourself a favour because they will never appreciate your kind gestures.

    Once this movie comes out on Home video, I foresee myself getting adding it to my collection. Like I said earlier, it’s a great date movie! It’s also impressively put together. There’s great cinematography and powerful performances from the leads. They’re never very flashy or bombastic but boy do they hit you like a punch in the gut. I loved it. (Theatrical version on the big screen, January 8, 2016)

    10
    HelpfulNot helpful  Reply
    adamwatchesmovies@  14.1.2016 age: 26-35 2,867 reviews

    At first glance I thought your review looked "wordy" but I really enjoyed it. You seem to really appreciate the simplicity of the film and its time. I haven't seen it yet but I will go in with a perspective that has been enhanced by your view of it. Thanks and keep up the good reviews!

    HelpfulNot helpful Reply
    contactbarb@  19.1.2016 age: 50+ 32 reviews

    Thank you for the compliments. I really liked the movie and I hope you do as well. I also have to thank you for your patience and making it through the whole thing. I probably do write too much, but I was feeling passionate.

    HelpfulNot helpful Reply
    adamwatchesmovies@  19.1.2016 age: 26-35 2,867 reviews

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