See You in the Morning

This was the first film i've ever seen that addresses what a man goes through emotionally when dealing with all the ramifications of divorce, separation from his own children and blending families when he enters into a relationship with a woman with children of her own. It deals with what it must be like to assume the role of caretaker in another man's house, with another man's children while someone else is in his former home with his children. Women and children aren't the only ones who have complex feelings when families play musical homes.

This film skips around in its early minutes, providing a disjointed story. But it is pleasant watching after it settles into a unified narrative.

The film revolves around the life of Larry Livingstone (Jeff Bridges), a psychiatrist whose life unravels, requiring him to create a new life. This requires patching together a new relationship with remnants of a failed relationship. In the main, this is a film about the complexities of blended families. And about the stresses that surround life's milestones.

The cast is strong. I especially enjoyed Linda Lavin's performance. There is an abundance of talented young actors, like Lukas Haas a few years after "Witness." And Drew Barrymore midway between "Firestarter" and "Poison Ivy." And Macaulay Culkin shortly before "Home Alone."

Larry's path is a bumpy one. This is definitely drama, not comedy, though there are some odd story choices that are almost comedic. Some fine background music contributes to the romantic bent of the film. Recommended for those who enjoy stories about the complications of life.

I enjoyed watching this. First of all, it is very good in showing family problems, so much to the saddening effect. But the actors do a solid job, and through the film there are numerous moments that lighten up the general mood and I think the atmosphere is quite balanced. The ending comes off well.

I especially like the soundtrack. The music fits perfectly, also when it comes to details. For example, there is a scene with Mozart's Little Night Music (Eine Kleine Nachtmusik). This music, composed back in the 18th century, supports the acting in an impressive way. Too bad that the soundtrack loses its quality towards the end. Another con is the structure of the plot, there are some flashbacks that seem to be forced to add more tension. It does, but it is a tick too artificial.

Maybe the average rating of this film is correct, maybe I don't see the reasons for which many rated the movie so poorly. But I liked it a lot and I think you will too. Give it a try, don't hesitate!

Don't EVER listen to the critics. Despite that fact that Alan K Pakula directed some of my favorite films of all time ('Klute,' 'The Parallax View,' 'All the President's Men'), I failed to see one of his best and most personal films for forty years simply because the critics disuaded me. Turns out, this film is just as good as any of the other great films he directed.

I won't go into the story because if you're reading this you already probably know something about it. What I will say is that the film is full of real moments, well observed. The film keeps you guessing which way it will go throughout and it's totally believable and laid out with measure, confidence and aplomb.

Jeff Bridges is the lead and he's never given a bad performance and here is no exception. Alice Krige is the smart and sexy woman he's in love with. But it is three actresses (Farrah Fawcett, Linda Lavin snd Frances Sterhagen) that really shine and Pakula shines, too, in the way he uses each of them. Each, in their way, gives what I would call the epitome of what I think of when I think Best Supporting Actress Oscar.

Why was the film not successful? Perhaps it seemed too upscale, too Patrician. The film features a good deal of symphony and jazz music and, since it all happens in New York, perhaps the film seemed too much like a Woody Allen without the belly laughs. It did, most assuredly, have a horrible ad campaign.

Either way, judge for yourself. I really loved it and could've missed out if I hadn't taken the chance.

Along the emotional lines of "Ordinary People", but not as good a script. Good acting by Daniels, Fawcett, and a young Drew Barrymore. I was not sure where it was going until the end. At that point, you think you've got it, and then they twist again. I own it and have seen it three times. Most would be satisfied with just one viewing. gb