Darling Companion

Makes a nice change
Ok, I've seen the low reviews for this movie. And if I could give it 31/2 stars I would. But what a nice change of pace it makes! It's a warm, intimate movie with a truly wonderful ensemble cast, a cute dog and a gorgeous setting. What's not to like? There are some subplots, but the gist of the movie is that Diane Keaton (Beth) and Kevin Kline (Joseph) are in an empty marriage. She rescues a wounded dog near the freeway, and he loses it on a walk while he's on his cell phone as usual, which brings their tension to a head. Diane Weist and Richard Jenkins, lovers whose relationship worries the others, help in the search, along with her son. The part gypsy housekeeper keeps pairing them up in certain ways and telling them her visions of what they are to search for, but what they are really seeking is to understand each other. And that is the heart of the movie. It is obviously geared for boomers (is that its great sin?), and has some humorous references to growing older which are...

KASDAN STILL HAS THE TOUCH
It's been 9 years since director Lawrence Kasdan put out a film, the last being DREAMCATCHER. More than that if you can remember the type of film he is best known for, an ensemble piece that captures the essence of what being human is all about. His classic THE BIG CHILL is but a forgotten memory to some and unknown to a new generation of movie goers. But Kasdan has always excelled at these ensemble pieces and it's nice to see him in true form with DARLING COMPANION.

Many will look at the box for this release and think it is nothing more than another animal picture. That does set the stage for this tale but it isn't the main ingredient. Diane Keaton plays Beth, the mother of one daughter Ellie (Lindsay Sloane) who's moved her family to New York and another Grace (Elisabeth Moss) who's in school. After dropping Ellie off at the airport while driving home, Beth tells Grace to stop the car on the freeway. There, they find a wounded and lost dog that they take home. While...

"CHARMING, HEARTWARMING, INTIMATE!"
Beth and Joseph are in an empty marriage, along with an empty nest. Beth rescues a wounded dog near the highway, and develops a special bond with the dog. Her husband loses the dog, and Beth becomes distraught and upset as she forms a frantic search. In the process and unexpected,different people meet and various couples are in desperate need of healing. The intriguing story portrays relationships, love,and loss. Some are on the verge of divorce, others feel empty, and some are looking for soul-mates. Acting Performance of entire cast is Excellent, the story is heartfelt, and the movie entertains from start to finish. The adorable dog is an added attraction, and the setting is perfect. An enjoyable summer movie. Refreshing, and Highly Recommended!

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