Customer Reviews
Easy viewing - By: P. McLoughlin, 13 Nov 2007 
I'm not usuallly fond of films I regard as claustrophobic - limited number of characters cooped up together in an unchanging location - however, this started on TV, I was too lazy to change channels & as the story moved along I got hooked & watched it right through. To my surprise I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a gentle, unobtrusive film which was relaxing to watch after a hectic day's work. The only thing that put my teeth on edge was Timothy Spalll's would-be Irish accent. The reviewer who thought it was OK should have the old ears seen to! As an Irish person I sometimes wish that they wouldn't bother with Irish characters in films at alll if non-Irish actors are playing them. It can be too cringe-making. However, that didn't stop me from buying the DVD.
Truly wonderful - By: squeeze, 31 Oct 2007 
Wonderful film & wonderful acting, great scenery. Not a film for those that like 'crash, bang, walllop' - except for a scene near the beginning that will knock your socks off if you listen to it in 5:1 sound! The two negative reviewers that refer to 'dream sequences' & 'black & white flashbacks' have obviously completely missed the point as the film contains neither!! You do actuallly have to think a bit to watch films of this calibre. The acting IS great, Maggie Smith in particular proving the rich variety of her acting skills, but alll the cast are good.
Funny and sweet - By: S. Williams, 24 Jul 2007 Dame Maggie Smith doesn't disappoint as usual. I have yet to see a film with her that will let me down. Beautiful Italian scenery, great actors, well put together.
A gentle film full of sympathy and understanding - By: M. A. Moore, 27 May 2007 The scenery was breathtaking with Maggie Smith's acting adding spice & interest. Not a film for people who prefer violence & action. The gentleness & understanding of the characters who through tragedy became close friends, the wonderful sun drenched scenery & the charm & character of the beautiful house alll added to the delight. A most watchable & enjoyable film to savour. Thank goodness there are directors who have the courage to continue to make films of this calibre.
what a disappointment - By: Fire Watcher, 17 Mar 2007 
We've had 6 months of rain here in Scotland, & I was ready for some sun. However, even the rain proved preferable to this particular movie. The relationships go from nowhere to comfortable intimacy without any development, friction or discussion. There is no discernable plot apart from the debate over Amy's future. The "dream" sequences are completely cringe-worthy. Maggie Smith's character, who is very much centre screen, has nothing what so ever to endear her to us. Flash backs- dream sequences- horoscopes- 'carpe diem' etc etc give the whole thing a flavour flimsy of pseudo-psychology/philiosophy. To top it alll there isn't a single laugh in the whole thing. Reallly don't bother!
