The Notebook


Starring: Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, Gena Rowlands
Directed by: Nick Cassavetes
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Romance, Drama
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: The story of a couple, as told in their youth (Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams), and in old age (James Garner, Gena Rowlands), about their love, love lost, and found again.

Review:

Tim: This is everything you would expect from a Nicholas Sparks movie (that can be good or bad, depending on your point of view). I found this film to be enjoyable, although similar to thousands of other coming-of-age meets old age romantic dramas (they're out there, trust me).

I've always had an unwarranted and unexplainable admiration for Ryan Gosling (perhaps going back to his "Breaker High" days, of which I reluctantly admit I was a fan). Regardless, I am glad to see him doing very good work. Rachel McAdams used this film to further her status as Hollywood big up-and-comer (although I am still skeptical and haven't jumped on her bandwagon yet). James Garner is very enjoyable. Gena Rowlands does a good job in a completely thankless role.

Nicholas Sparks has been the romance king for a little while and this film oozes romance like athletes ooze sweat (and yes, I did just compare romance to athlete sweat). Girls, ladies, and women will undoubtedly love the romance in this film. For skeptical guys, there is some enjoyment to be derived, but this is definitely a chick flick and you'd be better off watching Notting Hill again (and guys, don't lie, I know you love that movie as much as I do).

As far as romances go, this one is pretty solid. I usually don't mind romance-heavy films as long as they are done well, and this surprise hit is included in that category.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
Murder by Numbers, A Walk to Remember, Message in a Bottle