'Nights in Rodanthe' Review

Diane Lane and Richard Gere in Nights in Rodanthe, directed by George C. Wolfe. Watch the trailer:  http://www.moviefone.com/movie/nights-in-rodanthe/29027/main

    Friends told me to bring a box of Kleenix to the theater because the novel was a tearjerker. I haven't read it but wanted to see the movie.  The preview and cast was enticing and there's nothing wrong with a weepie as long as it's not cheap sentiment. I cry along with the best of them and yes I do eat quiche. There was a lot of audience sniffling at the conclusion and I had to wipe away a few tears.

   This movie was sentimental but not pandering. The story and direction might be manipulative but in a good way. Some viewers might find it an old-fashioned love story  but that's not a bad thing. The plot is more than that. It's about grieving and healing, trying to correct the wrongs of the past and forgiving, and learning to grow from whatever life deals you.

    Richard Gere and Diane Lane's third pairing are a winning combination.  Gere is my age and looks better. Recently I rewatched his American Gigolo made in '80 and I would kill to look as good as him then (and in that fabulous Armani wardrobe) and now. G-r-r-r-r!!  Lane gets better with each role as she moves into middle age. The rest of the cast offers fine support including Viola Davis as Lane's best friend. Catch this underused actress in a rerun of Law & Order: Criminal Intent where she gives a chilling performance as a not-so-nice security guard. 

   OK Nights In Rodanthe may seem corny to some hard-hearted viewers and cynics will probably hate it but it's not made for them. Mom enjoyed its leisurely pacing and nice scenery as well as the stirring soundtrack which hammers you if you're not moved enough by the story & acting.  I just purchased the unabridged CD audio version of Nicholas Sparks' novel for commuting and better keep some Kleenix in the car.