Lately, I have been a little bit of a cynic when it comes to romantic comedies. As much as I still enjoy a really cute predictable one, Don Jon managed to slap some sense into me. The false expectations that we get from romantic films can really alter your view of a relationship. So even though I was excited to see this film, I expected that I wouldn’t be able to relate to the time traveling and romance. However, About Time is the kind of movie that makes you want to fall in love.
The creators of Love Actually and Notting Hill have brought us another charming and delightful love story. This time they have added a bit of time travel.
At age 21, Tim (Domhnall Gleeson) discovers that he can travel back in time. His father (Bill Nighy) explains to him that the men in his family have always been able to do this, and that it must be kept secret. Now, he can only go back to a time that he remembers and was actually a part of. So no, he can not go back in time and stop Abraham Lincoln from getting shot.
For Tim, this power was meant to be used to find love. Sadly, this is not as easy as you would think. “All the time travel in the world can’t make someone love you.” Finally one night, with out having to use his powers, he meets the girl of his dreams. Mary (Rachel McAdams) is a smart, adorable, and oddly insecure woman who could not be more perfect for Tim. They hit off immediately. Unfortunately, after Tim foolishly travels back in time to help a friend, Mary knows him as a complete stranger. This leads to multiple “first time” meetings, until he can win her over again.
I have to say, this is one of the best onscreen couples I have ever enjoyed watching. Though you would think the time travel aspect of it would maybe lessen the relationship, it only makes you appreciate it more. McAdams and Gleeson portray such a realistic relationship with a genuine love for each other. It may not be steamy, sexual, off the charts chemistry. But it is the real respect and caring for one another that makes them so engaging. Not to mention some super cute moments. But this romance is only part of the story.
Surprisingly enough, the bigger picture behind this film isn’t about love, it is about life. Through some incredibly touching moments between Tim and his father, we are shown just how important is to take time and notice the little things in life.
The film really makes you wonder. If you had the power to travel back in time, what would do? Where would you go? Who would you talk to? Ultimately, you are given a second chance and you want to take advantage of it. Tim gets braver and bolder at each “try again” he attempts. What About Time really teaches you is how we should not waste time wishing for second chances. Instead, we should be treating every moment like it is our last.
Rated R for language and some sexual content.
About Time hits theaters November 1st.
About Time Official Trailer HD
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com
Making their big screen debuts, the entire cast prove they are multi-talented with their spectacular performances. Ryan Steele recently wrapped up his run as “Specs” in Disney’s Newsies and is now preparing for an ensemble role in the Broadway adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda. In Five Dances, Steele carries the film as the often times shy and awkward lead. Though Steele is supported by a strong cast, it’s the incredible chemistry he and LuPlau radiate off the screen that makes this film even more memorable. LaPlau, the Australian born dancer/actor, has been dancing since the age of 18 months. In 2009 he won the award for “Outstanding Performance by a Male Dancer” for Sid’s Waltzing Masquerade. Together, LaPlau and Steele give breakout performances through their dramatic romance.