I wanted to love this movie. Everything seemed to be in place for an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, film. It was set in southern France, good-looking and recognizable actors led the cast, and I really admired the vibrant African costumes, the proverbs and music. Despite all this, I didn't love it. Movies are supposed to convey their meaning at the first viewing, but "Secret Laughter" doesn't do that. Nimi and Matthew, as played by Long and Firth (both of whom have played romantic leads before and should have known better), radiate as much warmth and passion as dried fish. I used 'dried fish' deliberately, because it was one of a few - too few - strong lines and moments sprinkled throughout the film. Another winner was when Nimi catches Matthew snooping around her apartment. He finds a book of hers with her first name written on it and says: "Your name is Nimi. I never knew." Then he insists that she call him by his Christian name. I watched this scene intently as Matthew asked Nimi over and over to "say my name", realizing that up until that moment, they always called each other by their last names. I thought this was a turning point for the film, and expected that it get better. It didn't. Why do Nimi and Matthew always seem to stand at ten paces, even in that "say my name" scene? What does Matthew like about Nimi, aside from her obvious beauty? And why would a sensible woman like Nimi fall for a comic book writer who regards his marriage as something he can put on hold when a beautiful exotic 'adventure' comes along? And I'd like to add that it was a little hard for me to get behind a romance built on adultery. Yes, Jenny is a vicious harpy, but if I were in her shoes, but I'd probably match her Cruella tactics to stop my husband from straying. Believe it. The story hints at Nimi's painful past, but never fully explores it. Some critics say Firth seemed a little awkward here, and I agree. For goodness sake, the actor summoned more palpable longing and passion as that early 19th-century snob Mr. Darcy (and while wearing those hideous britches)! As for Long, who did shine in 'Love Jones', there were times when she seemed to concentrate more on her accent than playing her character. Even so, there were many moments – the 'say my name' scene among them – when she was in total control and came across really well.
14 Reviews
I agree with Dark, this movie was absolutely fantastic!
Stufan4ever18 June 2004
This is one of the best movies I've seen. Colin Firth is in rare form and this is just an enjoyable movie all around. Colin and Nia do have great chemistry together and the little boy is absolutely fascinating! I would love to have this movie in my collection it is a gem! It is nice to see traditions and non-traditions play out and to see African people portrayed as smart and not just in the jungle. I hope that wasn't offensive because it was not meant to be. I would love to know if I can find this movie on DVD. If anyone knows where I can find it, please let me know. The movie is insightful and shows Nia's great acting range. She has always been a good actress and proves it with this performance.
Not great, not terrible, not really worth it
KittenTrix27 May 2011
Warning: Spoilers
For anyone who requires more than a soppy unrealistic love story to rate a film duly, this film is not for you. I watched simply as someone who likes to drool over Colin Firth but alas, this film just had me cringing. As has been pointed out by other reviewers, the whole premise is entirely unbelievable. Perhaps it would have benefited had the director placed more emphasis in the first place on the initial reasons why a white author for children's story books would have taken up residence as the only white tourist in a village populated by black Christians? Maybe I am just not well enough travelled, in any case, the viewer is left to accept that in the director's eyes, there is no colour and that is how Firth's character starts here. Which is a fine sentiment - but seeing as the whole film is about the prejudices between races and cultures this does not make sense. It's not the only thing that lacks credulity. Whilst the script, being fairly well-written and the essence of some of the issues the film portrays are both admiral qualities to find in a film, the plot meanders without conviction and the stand-offs between Nene and Mama Fola are thankful reliefs into what otherwise would be a tired and somewhat lifeless love-affair. For instance, it is only later that we understand that Matthew takes up with Nimi in the first instance due to he and his wife's 'arrangement' to add 'flavour' to their own seemingly sordid and loveless relationship by thrill-seeking outside their marriage. Even then, the point is made with such subtlety it would be easy to miss and a viewer may still find themselves asking why at the end of the film.
However, Firth is believable as the cad without a cause and this slightly balances out the equality in his relationship with his god-awful English wife, Jenny Field, played by Caroline Goodall who does an excellent job of coming across as wholly unlikeable. Director Peter Schwabach clearly has a tendency to view wives and mothers from a slightly misogynistic, simplistic angle as these are the main stereotypes of the film. Perhaps in this case this is a good thing as without these, the plot would have lacked the drive it needed to kick it well up it's lumbering clumsy arse in order to drag us to the outcome and finally, ending.
Nia Long's acting was terrible and seemed as though she could not bring herself to actually believe neither the film's script nor plot line either. I am still not sure what accent she was settling for. As for the little boy, it is true, he was annoying throughout most of the film, though his childish exuberance and enthusiasm did serve to lift the energy in this film. Firth's character did not come across as the 'eccentric Englishman/artist/author' - so why on earth he would be wearing that Saracen wristband presumably designed for children as merchandise to accompany his books, is beyond me. This was unnecessary detail. If any woman encountered a fully grown man sporting a toy around his wrist it would be a clear signal to give a nice wide berth and er, move on.
However, she did do a good job of avoiding Mr Field for a good three-quarters of an hour, so when she finally does submit to his advances, which have for the main part been unrelenting - and rebuffed on numerous occasions, it can probably explain the almost immediate removal of her skirt/lower part of her wrap garment. Now girls, I don't know about you, but no matter how 'long it's been' I tend to keep my garments on for at least a few more dates - an even bigger surprise given the devout Christian upbringing Nimi has had... Having said that, it's not everyday a girl gets such an illicit encounter with the Firth, in which case, who can blame her? Foolish antelope!!
All in all, I stayed with the film as it does keep one entertained, despite its flaws, if only for the curiosity to see if it will ever become believable. It doesn't. Finally, I find it hard to believe that both Nimi and Matthew managed to escape a beating or at best, social isolation for their conduct, given the disgrace brought upon the family ultimately both in her choice and the time at which it was executed. However, this would probably also have been an unlikely turn of events given the light-hearted nature of the film.
One is left wondering why indeed, an actor like Colin Firth accepted the role, and possibly can be explained by the fact that The Secret Laughter of Women is an interesting insight into subject matter rarely, if ever, touched by Hollywood. Alas, it is the direction the film takes and possibly how it has been edited that lets it down, both in its overall conviction and in the depth of issues it is attempting to explore in the form of a light-hearted comedy/romance. It goes to show, sometimes, less is more.
However, Firth is believable as the cad without a cause and this slightly balances out the equality in his relationship with his god-awful English wife, Jenny Field, played by Caroline Goodall who does an excellent job of coming across as wholly unlikeable. Director Peter Schwabach clearly has a tendency to view wives and mothers from a slightly misogynistic, simplistic angle as these are the main stereotypes of the film. Perhaps in this case this is a good thing as without these, the plot would have lacked the drive it needed to kick it well up it's lumbering clumsy arse in order to drag us to the outcome and finally, ending.
Nia Long's acting was terrible and seemed as though she could not bring herself to actually believe neither the film's script nor plot line either. I am still not sure what accent she was settling for. As for the little boy, it is true, he was annoying throughout most of the film, though his childish exuberance and enthusiasm did serve to lift the energy in this film. Firth's character did not come across as the 'eccentric Englishman/artist/author' - so why on earth he would be wearing that Saracen wristband presumably designed for children as merchandise to accompany his books, is beyond me. This was unnecessary detail. If any woman encountered a fully grown man sporting a toy around his wrist it would be a clear signal to give a nice wide berth and er, move on.
However, she did do a good job of avoiding Mr Field for a good three-quarters of an hour, so when she finally does submit to his advances, which have for the main part been unrelenting - and rebuffed on numerous occasions, it can probably explain the almost immediate removal of her skirt/lower part of her wrap garment. Now girls, I don't know about you, but no matter how 'long it's been' I tend to keep my garments on for at least a few more dates - an even bigger surprise given the devout Christian upbringing Nimi has had... Having said that, it's not everyday a girl gets such an illicit encounter with the Firth, in which case, who can blame her? Foolish antelope!!
All in all, I stayed with the film as it does keep one entertained, despite its flaws, if only for the curiosity to see if it will ever become believable. It doesn't. Finally, I find it hard to believe that both Nimi and Matthew managed to escape a beating or at best, social isolation for their conduct, given the disgrace brought upon the family ultimately both in her choice and the time at which it was executed. However, this would probably also have been an unlikely turn of events given the light-hearted nature of the film.
One is left wondering why indeed, an actor like Colin Firth accepted the role, and possibly can be explained by the fact that The Secret Laughter of Women is an interesting insight into subject matter rarely, if ever, touched by Hollywood. Alas, it is the direction the film takes and possibly how it has been edited that lets it down, both in its overall conviction and in the depth of issues it is attempting to explore in the form of a light-hearted comedy/romance. It goes to show, sometimes, less is more.
Amazingly....... AWFUL!
mad_4_movies27 April 2003
When my Mum went down to the video store to rent a film for the night my sister and I learned a lesson, to always company my Mum to the video store! In fact the only reason why she chose it was because Colin Firth was in it and she *cough* thinks he's a good actor!
It starts off with some beautiful veiws of Africa and then goes DOWN AND DOWN AND DOWN, AND DOWN. After this film I was very surprised that Colin Firth got as far as he did since this pointless film could destroy any actors career.
The story is about a divorced women who's son is trying to matchmake her to a man called Matthew Fields who he met whilst impressing his friends because of his large house.
Nimi the divorce does not like Matthew at all and is going out with the local vicar who does not like her son John.... and the same with him!
I am sorry if you disagree with me and i hope i haven't offended you but to all the people who haven't seen this film, I leave you with one word of warning, DON'T WATCH THIS FILM!!!!!
It starts off with some beautiful veiws of Africa and then goes DOWN AND DOWN AND DOWN, AND DOWN. After this film I was very surprised that Colin Firth got as far as he did since this pointless film could destroy any actors career.
The story is about a divorced women who's son is trying to matchmake her to a man called Matthew Fields who he met whilst impressing his friends because of his large house.
Nimi the divorce does not like Matthew at all and is going out with the local vicar who does not like her son John.... and the same with him!
I am sorry if you disagree with me and i hope i haven't offended you but to all the people who haven't seen this film, I leave you with one word of warning, DON'T WATCH THIS FILM!!!!!
Adorable, Amazing, Feel Good Film
firthfantastic18 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
A fabulous film,which I have now watched several times over since buying the video only four days ago.Yes I am a Colin Firth Fan and Colin was his usual talented, natural gorgeous self.
The interaction between Colin (Matthew Field)and Fissy(Sammy, Nimi's 7 year old Son) was very special and so natural to watch. They were hilariously funny together and also touched my heart strings. The scenes which I loved the most was Sammy and Matt sitting on the wall chatting and Matt then falling backwards off the wall in an hilarious fashion (I won't reveal the content of their discussion so as not to spoil the plot). Also very hilarious was Sammy quizzing Matt about sex, Colin and Fissy were perfect in this scene and making what can be an awkward subject between adult and child just so natural. Colins words and face at the end of that scene were so delightful and said it all! just brilliant. Credit, of course, must also go to Fissy Roberts for his delightful portrayal of Sammy. He played such a lovable and cheeky child character. The two actors were just perfect together.
The interaction between Colin (Matt) and Nia (Nimi)was perfectly balanced and I couldn't agree more that the chemistry between them was wonderful to watch, displaying love,tension and of course passion. It was exciting to see how their delicate blossoming romance gradually unfolded, also showing how their cultural and social divides affected their relationship and was good to see how Colin and Nia sensitively portrayed Matt and Nimi discovering, accepting and overcoming these differences. It kept me fixed to the TV and guessing right until the end of the film.
Colins portrayal of Matt's vulnerable and juvenile side was also perfectly portrayed, so much so, that I found it was difficult to watch when Matt was so mean and childish towards Sammy because he (Matt) felt that Sammy was getting in the way of his romance/relationship with Sams Mother Nimi.One couldn't help feeling very disappointed, angry and frustrated with Matt for treating Sammy this way and this in turn threatening to spoil Matts special relationship with Sammy and Nimi. Colins special talent of 'getting inside a character's head' and displaying to the audience the different sides of a character, was very much in evidence here and pure magic to watch. I must also mention that Colin also has such a good rapport with young actors (see also 'My life so far'a wonderful and not to be missed film).
I also loved the relationship between Matthew and his wife Jenny, both were excellent in displaying to the audience the dark side and tensions within their marriage and that not all seemingly 'Happy Marriages' are quite what they may seem from the outside.
I mustn't forget to mention the reverend whom I thought was very funny, in a serious sort of way! Also Nimi's Mother and family were hilarious as well as bringing across the importance of Nimi's culture and her situation.
The downside, I can't really find a downside,but to be objective about the film and to give credibility to my review, the only negative comment that I would make is that the script writers didn't explain in enough detail as to why Matt collapsed in the car, there was only a vague suggestion, from Nimi, of something being wrong with his heart. However, this didn't detract from my enjoyment of the film, far from it.I just needed to rewind the tape a little for a 2nd take.
I felt that this film had it all, entertaining, uplifting and I loved the rich colours and sunny scenery.The film warmed up a cold winters day and made me smile :-)) All the essential elements were there,laughter,love,tension,sadness,anger,drama and a Warm feel good factor, with, yes plenty of those delicious Colin Firth moments including a very soaked Colin in a 'Wet Shirt scene',not to be missed by any fan, what more could a girl want;-))
I would strongly recommend this film, specially to any Colin Firth Fans ;-)
The interaction between Colin (Matthew Field)and Fissy(Sammy, Nimi's 7 year old Son) was very special and so natural to watch. They were hilariously funny together and also touched my heart strings. The scenes which I loved the most was Sammy and Matt sitting on the wall chatting and Matt then falling backwards off the wall in an hilarious fashion (I won't reveal the content of their discussion so as not to spoil the plot). Also very hilarious was Sammy quizzing Matt about sex, Colin and Fissy were perfect in this scene and making what can be an awkward subject between adult and child just so natural. Colins words and face at the end of that scene were so delightful and said it all! just brilliant. Credit, of course, must also go to Fissy Roberts for his delightful portrayal of Sammy. He played such a lovable and cheeky child character. The two actors were just perfect together.
The interaction between Colin (Matt) and Nia (Nimi)was perfectly balanced and I couldn't agree more that the chemistry between them was wonderful to watch, displaying love,tension and of course passion. It was exciting to see how their delicate blossoming romance gradually unfolded, also showing how their cultural and social divides affected their relationship and was good to see how Colin and Nia sensitively portrayed Matt and Nimi discovering, accepting and overcoming these differences. It kept me fixed to the TV and guessing right until the end of the film.
Colins portrayal of Matt's vulnerable and juvenile side was also perfectly portrayed, so much so, that I found it was difficult to watch when Matt was so mean and childish towards Sammy because he (Matt) felt that Sammy was getting in the way of his romance/relationship with Sams Mother Nimi.One couldn't help feeling very disappointed, angry and frustrated with Matt for treating Sammy this way and this in turn threatening to spoil Matts special relationship with Sammy and Nimi. Colins special talent of 'getting inside a character's head' and displaying to the audience the different sides of a character, was very much in evidence here and pure magic to watch. I must also mention that Colin also has such a good rapport with young actors (see also 'My life so far'a wonderful and not to be missed film).
I also loved the relationship between Matthew and his wife Jenny, both were excellent in displaying to the audience the dark side and tensions within their marriage and that not all seemingly 'Happy Marriages' are quite what they may seem from the outside.
I mustn't forget to mention the reverend whom I thought was very funny, in a serious sort of way! Also Nimi's Mother and family were hilarious as well as bringing across the importance of Nimi's culture and her situation.
The downside, I can't really find a downside,but to be objective about the film and to give credibility to my review, the only negative comment that I would make is that the script writers didn't explain in enough detail as to why Matt collapsed in the car, there was only a vague suggestion, from Nimi, of something being wrong with his heart. However, this didn't detract from my enjoyment of the film, far from it.I just needed to rewind the tape a little for a 2nd take.
I felt that this film had it all, entertaining, uplifting and I loved the rich colours and sunny scenery.The film warmed up a cold winters day and made me smile :-)) All the essential elements were there,laughter,love,tension,sadness,anger,drama and a Warm feel good factor, with, yes plenty of those delicious Colin Firth moments including a very soaked Colin in a 'Wet Shirt scene',not to be missed by any fan, what more could a girl want;-))
I would strongly recommend this film, specially to any Colin Firth Fans ;-)
Confusing and unbelievable
anjamanning23 July 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The positives first: I applaud this attempt at making a movie about a cross-cultural love story. The Nigerian dress was beautiful throughout and the boy was precious. Conversations seemed mostly realistic and were entertaining. Nia Long is beautiful and Colin Firth particularly hot in this movie.
Unfortunately, that's not enough to save a movie that has too many plot holes to make it watchable, such as: why is Matthew in the south of France, why does he pass out in his car, and why on Earth wouldn't he divorce his witch of a wife? Maybe he has his reasons, but they're not given in the movie.
Beyond that the movie is entirely unbelievable. My main question right now is why Nimi would ever agree to be his mistress? How is she going to explain that to her son a couple of years down the road? Maybe editing did away with all the parts that would have explained and made it seem believable?
All in all, it's a waste of two talented actors.
Unfortunately, that's not enough to save a movie that has too many plot holes to make it watchable, such as: why is Matthew in the south of France, why does he pass out in his car, and why on Earth wouldn't he divorce his witch of a wife? Maybe he has his reasons, but they're not given in the movie.
Beyond that the movie is entirely unbelievable. My main question right now is why Nimi would ever agree to be his mistress? How is she going to explain that to her son a couple of years down the road? Maybe editing did away with all the parts that would have explained and made it seem believable?
All in all, it's a waste of two talented actors.
The heart sees what the eye cannot
lovinglife18 February 2005
This is a great movie. When two people from different backgrounds and social status think that they have nothing to offer each other and in the end they what each other needs it a testament to what the heart knows. Sometimes we wonder why one man is with a woman or vise versa and the outward appearances say one thing to our eye, but what they offer each other from within that we cannot see is amazing and unexplainable. When Nimi thought that Matthew had nothing to offer her and when Matthew was only looking for a fling (because he had an open marriage w/his wife Jenny), in the end they realized that they could not and did not want to exist without the other. It was worth it to them to resist what family and friends thought and what society said was right to be with each other. This movie kind of restores my faith in love.
I simply love this movie!!!
darkteilani23 January 2004
Warning: Spoilers
*Warning! Some spoilers!*
Matt, a rich writer, is in fact still just a boy in his behaviour. He doesn't care about anyone's but his own needs and couldn't care less about the consequences of any of his actions. Just as he gets to know Nimi and her bonds with her familiy and her communitiy he starts to feel that something is missing in his live.
He starts to realize that he is in fact lonely and stuck in impersonal structures that are just convenient but lack heart and commitment. Nevertheless he shies away from any responsibilties and is reluctant to change his live. But will he be able to settle again in his old life and ignore the bonds he's already - unconsciously - formed?
Nimi's situation is the absolute opposite. She is pressed into the regulations of her Nigerian community, its prejudices and its medieval values. Being a single mother her position is difficult and it gets even worse when she falls in love with Matt, a white devil (as the Referend would say), a man who cannot commit. The women of the community plan to marry her to the Referend to end her single status and give Sammy "a name". But that would mean for Nimi to give up all independence and self-determination. But is there an alternative for her if she wants Sammy to be accepted and herself to become a respected member of the community?
This movie has it all: a very sensitive and sensual love story (with VERY sexy scenes of Matt and Nimi) and an endearing child who is eagerly matchmaking, a beautiful scenery in lively colours.
Colin Firth (*swoon*) and Nia Long show a great chemistry. It's just fantastic to watch them. And Fissy Roberts as Sammy is just to die for. You simply want to adopt him. I just love the way Sammy and Matthew talk to each other. They are both on the same level in many ways. Especially when Sammy asks Matt about Sex. This scene is absolutely adorable!!
Almost nothing to complain about.... wait! That's not true. One thing is not good: That the movie is not long enough! (Well, and maybe that the Referend is too bad and too silly to be convincing....)
10 of 10, by all means!
Matt, a rich writer, is in fact still just a boy in his behaviour. He doesn't care about anyone's but his own needs and couldn't care less about the consequences of any of his actions. Just as he gets to know Nimi and her bonds with her familiy and her communitiy he starts to feel that something is missing in his live.
He starts to realize that he is in fact lonely and stuck in impersonal structures that are just convenient but lack heart and commitment. Nevertheless he shies away from any responsibilties and is reluctant to change his live. But will he be able to settle again in his old life and ignore the bonds he's already - unconsciously - formed?
Nimi's situation is the absolute opposite. She is pressed into the regulations of her Nigerian community, its prejudices and its medieval values. Being a single mother her position is difficult and it gets even worse when she falls in love with Matt, a white devil (as the Referend would say), a man who cannot commit. The women of the community plan to marry her to the Referend to end her single status and give Sammy "a name". But that would mean for Nimi to give up all independence and self-determination. But is there an alternative for her if she wants Sammy to be accepted and herself to become a respected member of the community?
This movie has it all: a very sensitive and sensual love story (with VERY sexy scenes of Matt and Nimi) and an endearing child who is eagerly matchmaking, a beautiful scenery in lively colours.
Colin Firth (*swoon*) and Nia Long show a great chemistry. It's just fantastic to watch them. And Fissy Roberts as Sammy is just to die for. You simply want to adopt him. I just love the way Sammy and Matthew talk to each other. They are both on the same level in many ways. Especially when Sammy asks Matt about Sex. This scene is absolutely adorable!!
Almost nothing to complain about.... wait! That's not true. One thing is not good: That the movie is not long enough! (Well, and maybe that the Referend is too bad and too silly to be convincing....)
10 of 10, by all means!
Fascinating.
efua31 December 1999
I've seen this movie twice already and am very impressed with it.
The conversations between Nimi and her mother plus Nimi and Matthew are very touching. The Nigerian community is shown very truthfully and as colourfully as it usually is.
Although certain things could have done with a bit more explanation; if we knew why Matthew was in the South of France in the first place, the scenes following Matthew being found in his car would be more understandable.
Luckily, Optimum Releasing have a website that has detailed production notes that help to make such scenes better to understand.
I would go and see it again but unfortunately it had a limited release in London and is not longer available to see. I hope the video release gets it to a bigger audience because the film deserves it.
The conversations between Nimi and her mother plus Nimi and Matthew are very touching. The Nigerian community is shown very truthfully and as colourfully as it usually is.
Although certain things could have done with a bit more explanation; if we knew why Matthew was in the South of France in the first place, the scenes following Matthew being found in his car would be more understandable.
Luckily, Optimum Releasing have a website that has detailed production notes that help to make such scenes better to understand.
I would go and see it again but unfortunately it had a limited release in London and is not longer available to see. I hope the video release gets it to a bigger audience because the film deserves it.
Single Mom's struggle: do what's expected or follow her heart?
enrightnyc-17 May 2005
Personally, I think the movie is pretty good. It almost rates an 8. I liked the ethnography aspect as well as the gorgeous photography. Colin Firth's character isn't the most likable but he does a better than decent job with the role. The heroine, played by the beautiful Nia Long, is a familiar film heroine in that she's trying to do what she thinks is the best for her child -- marrying a respected member of her expatriate community -- while fighting her attraction for the "bad" man -- one who's not a member of her community (the "outsider"). Most of the film is about this mother's struggle: should she do what's expected of her, what she thinks is best for her son or should she follow her heart? I don't want to give away the ending. Let me just say that it's a feel-good movie with gorgeous location shots, exquisite African dress (it's worth seeing the film just for the women's brilliantly colored African clothing and headdresses), and likable characters overall. The actor who plays Nia Long's son is bright and adorable. The plot is a bit formulaic, but I liked the movie nonetheless. If you're a Colin Firth fan you MUST see this film. If you like chic flicks, see it. I think I'll watch it again tonight!
I really enjoyed this film!!!!
spw14330 January 2005
I love Nia Long...and love Collin Firth. So I was very happy to see that they were in a movie together. Overall I thought the concept was good and the little boy very endearing.
I thought the movie was choppy at times but I think that was primarily due to poor editing...but the acting was solid and believable. The chemistry between the two main characters was understated but passionate.
I liked the differing cultures at work, the locale was so Belle and the colors were so vibrant from the Nigeran dress I only wished that this film was released here in the states...I had to get a poor copy from Ebay!
I thought the movie was choppy at times but I think that was primarily due to poor editing...but the acting was solid and believable. The chemistry between the two main characters was understated but passionate.
I liked the differing cultures at work, the locale was so Belle and the colors were so vibrant from the Nigeran dress I only wished that this film was released here in the states...I had to get a poor copy from Ebay!
I love it!
cool_mama1723 May 2001
I love this film. There is something for everyone. It if funny, saddening, passionate and dramatic. The mixture of two completely different cultures creates a whole new world that the viewer cannot help but want to be a part of. I must admit that I am slightly biased, as Colin Firth is my favourite actor and so nothing that he does is wrong in my eyes (!), but in this film his tremendous acting talent is apparent and it is furthered even more by the beautiful acting of his co-star Nia Long. The problems that their love affair suffers makes it, ironically, more believable and the simple features like the contrast between the colours of Matthew's and Nimi's clothes alone, makes this film all the more enchanting. I defy anyone that cannot be moved by this story. I find it enchanting and have watched it at least ten times since I bought the film a week ago!
A very good looking couple in an unrealistic and shallow story
varineloise24 May 2011
I have mixed feelings about it, it wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either.
Something is not quite working, to start with, the whole thing is not very realistic which is not necessarily a problem, but when it tries to be serious it doesn't work.
A lot of things seemed a bit forced. I also thought the characters were a bit shallow which prevented me to get attached to any of them. I found the kid not a very good actor and irritating at times.
I did enjoy the 'sweet Colin moments' though, he looks fantastic in the film (fabulous hair!), and beautiful Nia makes a good partner.
Something is not quite working, to start with, the whole thing is not very realistic which is not necessarily a problem, but when it tries to be serious it doesn't work.
A lot of things seemed a bit forced. I also thought the characters were a bit shallow which prevented me to get attached to any of them. I found the kid not a very good actor and irritating at times.
I did enjoy the 'sweet Colin moments' though, he looks fantastic in the film (fabulous hair!), and beautiful Nia makes a good partner.
now thats what i call hot actress
seifelnaser8 January 2005
Man this movie is awesome especially the part they show the Italian chick damn shes incredibly hot shes not your average Italian. Mna i would go see that movie over and over just to see that chick. i really enjoyed the movie really hot girl shes steamy sexy. also the actor are really good but the girl is better. I think the actor played a better part in pride and prejudice so i don't think he acted in his highest level but yeah back to the girl i mean shes gorgeous perfect and i could only wish her luck in her future movies yeah also her acting skills in such young age was awesome i was just amazed Wit her performance. what a great actress so yeah i recommend everybody this great movie
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