Now here is a blast from the past. What has happened? I am now 40, and found myself at a loose end, ...
Now here is a blast from the past. What has happened? I am now 40, and found myself at a loose end, so I thought I would pick up my opinionating pen again. Will pop in from time to time and write stuff.
Enjoy!
Nolly
Member since:27.04.2001
Reviews:136
Members who trust:16
Before I begin, I feel I must nail my colours firmly to the mast. I love books. I love reading. One of my favourite authors is John Irving. One of my favourite books by Irving is 'A Widow for One Year'. Now, you may be wondering what in the wide, wide world of sports this has to do with my review of a film entitled 'The Door in the Floor'. Well, dear reader, read on and I shall explain...
In 2004 a film was made. There is nothing curious in that minor fact. Of course there are hundreds, nay, thousands of films made every year. The film I am referring to, though, is based upon the first third of an existing novel. The novel in question is, funnily enough, 'A Widow for One Year' by John Irving.
The screenplay for 'The Door in the Floor' was not written by Irving himself, although he is not averse to screenwriting (he adapted his own novel 'The Ciderhouse Rules' for the screen). Irving approved the screenplay for 'TDitF', which was written by Tod Williams, who also directed the film.
The Plot
I will try to avoid major spoilers, but if you would rather not know at all, look away now.
Ted Cole is a writer of children's books, and also a serial seducer of women. He is enduring the last rites of his marriage to Marion, who has entered a deep depression after the death of their sons. The couple also have a young daughter, Ruth.
Ted hires a young man, Eddie O'Hare, to do general work for him and Marion over the summer vacation, and to learn about the life of a writer, as it is a career to which Eddie himself aspires.
Eddie proceeds to become a pawn of and, in one way, an accelerator of the continued splintering of the Coles' marriage.
The Cast
Even though this was a film by a 'new' writer and director, it still boasts a fine cast. The lead roles of Ted and Marion are played by Jeff Bridges and Kim Basinger. Bridges manages to convey a man who seems set upon the course of his life as a result of what has happened before, while Basinger brings forth an awesome beauty - a beauty that is restrained and haunted by what has happened to her and to the way that her husband has reacted.
Eddie O'Hare is played by a young man by the name of Jon Foster, and he does the job admirably, particularly as there are a few scenes in the film where he has to express his increasing love for Marion with no company whatsoever, so to speak.
Ruth is played by Elle Fanning, She acquits herself well and is a young actress of great promise.
My view of the film itself
This is not a thrill a minute romantic comedy. Then again, neither is it a turgid two hours of dreary drama. The story is a difficult one, that of a married couple finding out how they can restore their lives after a tragic family event, even if it is at the cost of their marriage. The film is by no means bleak, however. It is calm, respectful, and beautifully filmed against the backdrop of the respectable and affluent New England Coast. I would urge you to watch this film - it is beautifully acted, without hyperbole or any wooden-ness. It is sad, funny, tragic and also life affirming.
This film is Certificate 15 - it contains strong sexual scenes and strong language. I would definitely not recommend it to anyone under that age,
The DVD Extras
On the DVD you will find a commentary track, a behind the scenes feature and features on the anatomy of a scene and how a novel is brought to the screen, featuring John Irving himself.
My verdict overall
You might have guessed that I love it. I am about to put it on again!
'The Door in the Floor'
Starring Jeff Bridges and Kim Basinger
With Jon Foster, Elle Fanning, Mimi Rogers and Bijou Phillips.
Produced by Ted Hope, Anne Carey and Michael Corrente
Based on the Novel 'A Widow for One Year' by John Irving
Screenplay by and directed by Tod Williams
Running Time 106 Minutes
Momentum Pictures: DVD Serial Number MP410D
Also on DY Nolly
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Irving's best-selling novel 'A Widow For One Year' The Door In The Floor explores the complexities of love in a privileged society. Set in the beach community ...
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Aug 11th, 2009
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