After we'd enjoyed seeing We Are Marshall together, my mom and Rikki invited me to see The Holiday just a couple days later. Being a guy, I gotta admit that my first impulse was 'chick flick', but the chance to hang out with mom and Rikki again was more than enough to get me to go. And frankly, I'm glad I did.
One nice little benefit occurred right after we'd arrived... while walking down the corridor to the theater, Rikki and mom were walking ahead of me talking when it dawned on my that there were three generations of the family enjoying a movie together. Technically it may not be a big deal for some of you, but for me it was. Quality time with family is always good, but better when it's not predicated by traditional family times (birthdays, holidays, etc.).
Almost right from the start, I could see Rikki and my mom were enjoying the film. Lots of commentary between them. I was enjoying it as well, but it was clearly for different reasons.
Although we were all getting into the story, they were enamored with other things. Things like the British scenery, how homes were decorated, etc. I on the other hand noticed things like the appearance of several older, formerly big name movie stars in smaller, or supporting roles.
BTW - While still a spry 89, Eli Wallach was great in an all too rare appearance.
I gotta say, I loved the story of the movie. It kinda caught me off-guard. Kate Winslet's character's problem was a common one; loving someone that didn't return that love. Now I'm not here to confess anything, but let's just say I could relate well to the story. I'm not gonna give away anything about the plot here, but I will say that the movie was both very pleasant, and well-written. My mom and Rikki loved it, and although I didn't rank it quite as highly, I did throughly enjoy myself. Especially compelling to me was a moment when Kate Winslet's character explains to Jack Black why he too loves someone that doesn't return his love. That speech hit a bit too close to home for my tastes.
So really it all comes down to just a few things. A really good movie. A well written story that avoids predictability, yet leaves everyone happy by the end. And, as far a chick flicks go, not too bad for the guys. I really liked it.
The opinions were...
The only reason I didn't rate it was high as my mom and niece, was that I never really forgot I was watching a movie. That's a big thing for me. The story however nearly made up for it. The gals on the other hand loved everything about the film. In fact, it was Rikki's second time seeing it...