Loin d'ici

After reading other reviews of this movie, I was intrigued enough to want to watch it for myself. Yes, the movie is a little formulaic, as other reviewers have pointed out, but the vast majority of movies out there are formulaic in one way or another. - at least to me they are, so that wasn't a deal breaker for me. Faraway is indeed a story we've all seen and heard before, but it is offered to us with an exotic twist - a welcome and fascinating twist. Set partly in Croatia, the rustic scenery is inviting and alluring, and the two main characters, Zeyrep and Josip have genuine chemistry. This movie did not disappoint.

So first off, I'm a guy. Not going to sit for any sappy silly nonsense.

So when is a rom-com not a rom-com? When there's great acting, great script, great story line, great humor, and true heart felt moments. It just goes to show how good films can be without all the formulaic drivel that is churned out year after year. This was a film where you felt for the characters, you were engrossed in the story, and as my wife said, "I didn't want it to end". Agreed. We wished it was longer with MORE humor, more plot twists, and simply more good filmmaking. Message to hollywood: take notes and make better films!

In some ways the story reminds me of Shirley Valentine: a woman leaves her dull life and uninterested husband and goes to the lovely Mediterranean. In this version she finds out that her recently deceased mother owns a house on an island. From the first day on the island and onwards, her life gradually starts to change to the better. She makes new friends and enjoys her new environment. She also has to handle conflicts and, eventually make up her mind about how to act as the new owner of a small house with a breathtaking view. It's a warm and sometimes funny movie with quite a few surprises. All actors give their character good credibility and personality.

The story is cute, the views are absolutely wonderful, but what I really loved about this movie was that they took a real woman to play the role, not trying to look younger or perfect, just a normal woman showing a normal body and her wrinkes. It makes women like her, to feel good about theirselves and believe that they are also worth of having a new love story in their lives.

The actor is very charming but also not perfect, has a beer belly which for most of women is not important. Usually the men are the ones who want perfect look women.

The soundtrack is also very nice. The movie has some funny parts that will make you laugh.

I enjoyed this movie because the lead actress was a mature woman who looked her age with a few extra pounds and wrinkles , provingthat you can attract a man without botox and a slim body. I hadnever heard of Naomi Krauss but found her portrayal of the taken for granted wife and mother captivating. I can truly understand how the handsome Bogdan fell for her. Yes, there are many cliches but overall it was a refreshing feel good movie with fine performances and absolutely gorgeous scenery. Enjoyed it so much that I would love to see a sequel! Maybe its not Shakespeare but this chick flick was entertaining and fun.