This movie was disappointing, not because of the two gorgeous, touching stars or the cinematography, but the story's fantasy premise has so many flaws, so many inconsistencies that it collapses, making the whole affair rather pointless, in my opinion. So, go with caution, those of you who love romance or the two main cast members, for you may be satisfied with these elements. The storyline features a gentleman, Henry (Eric Bana), who, as a child, escaped from an horrific car accident by "time traveling" to a different place. The crash, however, killed his mother and drove his father to alcoholism. Continuing to travel throughout his life to different time periods and places, he finds himself in a meadow one day, where a beautiful little girl is preparing a picnic. She will grow up to be Claire (Rachel McAdams) and become the wife of the time traveler. Meeting again at a college library, as adults, the two fall desperately in love and marry, but, complications are always present. Claire, a budding artist, is often left to spend holidays alone and worries constantly, for Henry sometimes travels into dangerous neighborhoods and situations. Then, longing for a child, the couple experiences acute disappointment time again through miscarriage. Although Henry uses his abilities to purchase a winning lottery ticket that buys them a lovely home and art studio, will they ever be truly happy? And, what about strong indications that Henry will die in his early forties, in a violent way? As stated above, there are elements to admire about this film. The two stars, Bana and McAdams, are attractive, talented actors who work very hard to make the film a success. Also, the lesser cast members, including Ron Livingston and Arliss Howard, do fine work as well. Then, too, the scenery is lovely, from beautiful meadow to stately mansion and back again. Costumes and camera work are of the finest. It is, unfortunately, the story that is wanting and since it was a book first, which I did not read yet, this reviewer does not know if critical issues were left out that would have made a more sensible story. For example, Henry always travels "nude", leaving a pile of clothes when he departs and arriving naked at his next venue, causing him to have to steal the first available clothing. Why is this so? Can't clothes travel too? In addition, questions about why he can travel to his own wedding, nearly on time, but have no control over other episodes is puzzling and that's just the start of a long list of inconsistencies. Because fantasy relies on a set of ground rules to be successful, in my opinion, this one doesn't work for me. The direction, too, is tentative and the flick has many slowly moving scenes. In summary, if you love romance first and foremost, you will probably want to see this film. All others, however, should ponder awhile about plunking down ten bucks for a ticket, when it might be better to wait for the DVD or other low cost alternatives.
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