The Only One

Looking for a movie about lessons learned, with character growth and development? Don't look here.

Now mind you, I'm not saying every story needs a happy ending. Generally though, when there isn't one it's because of some reason. Some profound realization, some major personal growth moment, other external factors pulling the characters apart, etc. This movie had none of that. It was going, and going, and then it just...wasn't anymore. If anything, the main characters both take steps back in their lives and end in a worse state than they began. Not really much else to say because nothing really happened.

I really enjoyed this movie which explores what is gained and what is lost for the sake of relationships: with romantic partners, family, and even the things we love. The acting is nuanced and draws you in to the love stories. The setting in the south of France made me want to get on a plane (covid or no covid) and head over to walk along beside the vineyards or the sea.

All in all, it is a film worth seeing.

Just like the other review, I didn't get the film and I watched it completely. Very nice scenery and acting was ok, but LifeTime movies have a more meaningful script.

IN A NUTSHELL: On the brink of accepting a life of independence and wanderlust, a young woman visits an old flame on his vineyard in France and takes one last shot at a committed relationship.

The film is written by Seth Gilbert and directed by his brother Noah Gilbert.

THINGS I LIKED: France! We get to wander around the gorgeous south of France and escape to a vineyard.

Lovely soundtrack.

The beautiful lighting bathes almost everything in afternoon gold.

Puppydog Daniel is played by Joshua Grothe.

Blake Lindsley and Hugo Armstrong round out the main cast.

Robert Frost's poem "The Road Not Taken" is talked about with insights that will make you think.

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE: Tom/Natalie is played by Australian actress Caitlin Stasey. She's beautiful to look at but the freeloading, carefree character she plays in this romantic drama is rude, crass, selfish, and unappealing. She shows very little respect for others and their values. It made me not want her to be with Daniel.

I felt bad for Daniel the whole time, assuming he'd get dumped again, all while abandoning his own responsibilities and the life he had carefully created. Every minute, I just worried that Natalie/Tom would just trample all over his heart.

There was more sadness about the couple than warmth and true love.

For a romance, there should have been more kissing. Just saying.

Spider tattoo? Ick.

Hairy armpits on a beautiful girl. Ick.

Some viewers will complain that "nothing happens" in the movie. Know ahead of time that it's a slow burn and character study.

l.

Beautiful cinematography. Beyond that there isn't much else. It's script is lackluster and emotional depth is sorely absent. I found myself unable to root for either main character as they simply weren't likable. If you enjoy wine and watching pretty people in pretty places, you might appreciate this.