Strongly written characters elevate the story of two New York neighbors (Rose Byrne, Hugh Dancy) and their unusual romance.
Though it has also has comedic elements, I would call this more a comedy-drama than a romantic comedy, since it lacks some of the frothiness associated with that term. Adam’s haphazard attempts to engage Beth, who’s just moved into his building and done him the favor of making the first move, betray a distinct lack of social skills, but she persists, proving that even an awkward loner can find love, provided he is unusually handsome. Adam’s awkwardness has a name, and we and Beth learn that after a time, and one of the notable things about the movie is how our perceptions of Adam change when we associate him with a diagnosis. Writer-director Max Mayer wisely waits awhile before this happens.
Beyond the plotting, he shows the real difficulties relationships can encounter after they grow serious. That some of the saddest scenes in the movie are also among the funniest is a testament to Mayer’s screenwriting, and solid acting by both leads. Both characters change in the course of the movie, and that’s well depicted, too. Highly recommended, and not just because of the title.
IMDB link
viewed 7/15/09 (screening at Ritz Bourse) and reviewed 8/15/09
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