On the brink: The dinner party moves out onto the veranda ... and emotions get a bit closer to the surface (l to r: Harris, Duval, Rowlands, Conrad, Shields, Unger).
Beautifully written, directed and performed, this is one of those films in which you get what you want. It never tells you how to feel about the issues it raises; everything is dealt with an open hand. As all of the relationships unfold and develop over the course of about 24 hours, the film finds insight in the smallest exchanges of words and glances--attitudes conveyed through actions. Of course, this requires a first-rate cast, and all are up to the challenge, especially the always-terrific Rowlands. And Shields is superb too, looking wiry and edgy but masking a needy little girl underneath. It's a remarkably effective film that only occasionally dips into sentiment but more often surprises us with a difficult scene that highlights our own narrow-mindedness, selfishness or fear as we approach our family and friends ... and their friends. There is a slightly muted feel to the film, as the true emotions remain just below the surface and we never quite understand any of the characters. But for those of us who don't need films that have clear-cut answers to everything, this is a breath of fresh air!
[adult themes, language] 2.Apr.00
London L&G Film Festival Apr.00; US release 22.Nov.00
