I’m not entirely sure that there are adequate words to describe the way I feel about About Time. To put it in 21st century parlance, boy, did it give me the feels. I left the theater sniffling like an idiot and craving a substantial quantity of comfort food.
Written and directed by Richard Curtis, the film stars Domhnall Gleeson as “Tim,” a 21-year-old man whose father (Bill Nighy) reveals to him that he can travel through time and change the events of the past. As he adjusts to his new skill, he moves to London, falls in love with “Mary” (Rachel McAdams), and learns that even tweaking history can’t erase the pain of living.
Is it a silly story? Slightly. Is it sentimental? Certainly. However, Curtis takes what could have been an ABC Family-grade disaster and turns it into pure genius. Not only has he written a script that manages to be both whip-smart and delightfully sweet, he’s made it look absolutely beautiful, creating Tim’s oddly magical little world in such a way that it feels like the world’s realest fairytale.
Of course, much of the movie’s success can be attributed to Gleeson, a charmingly unlikely leading man with impeccable timing and soulful honesty. He has palpable chemistry with the always wonderful McAdams, who wisely keeps Mary from veering off into manic pixie dream girl territory. Surrounded by strong supporting performances, the two are a joy to watch.
If you’re looking for something that will give your heartstrings a solid yank, About Time is for you. I plan to buy it on DVD and only watch it when I have access to a kettle and plenty of tea.
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