Daisies in December

I watched "Daisies in December" because it stars Joss Ackland...an incredibly talented actor with a gorgeous voice. However, I had no idea the film also starred Jean Simmons...and the two together were simply marvelous. The acting is THE reason to watch this film.

Gerald is an elderly man who resents losing his independence. He's recently moved in with his son and family but now that the family is going on a skiing vacation, Gerald is forced to stay at a hotel which is also like a short-stay nursing home. He clearly resents it and wants to hate every minute of it. And, at first, he does a great job of being miserable. But when he meets Katherine, she is able to cut through his very gruff exterior...and their relationship is quite charming.

As I already said, I love the acting. My only regret is that some elements of the story were very easy to guess and anticipate...the biggest weakness in an otherwise terrific film. Well worth seeing...and proof that Ackland was every bit the equal to the great Ms. Simmons.

I had chanced upon viewing this film on a channel surfing excursion one weekend morning. I passed by the usual junk, info-mercials, and tired network programs and movies, then, it happened. I instantly became transfixed to the screen watching every minute until the end of this magnificent TV movie the British have produced.

If you want to have the best of character identification and development, in which a film so immerses you you can't turn your attention to anything else, then try this film my friend. The story is gripping to say the least and at its best it is simply the best formation of a loving relationship since Cary Grant on the big screen. And these people in the cast are old! Who would have thought young, pretentious romantics could learn anything from grandparents about love and commitment? After all, aren't they mostly over the hill? No. Far from it. Despite physical limitations and ailments of old age, these two stars of the film, Jean Simmons and Joss Ackland prove to any doubting Thomas's that love is ageless. Tragedy too.

My favorite line is when Catherine (Jean Simmons) tells her aspiring lover, "Life is essentially ridiculous. Once you understand that you can start to enjoy yourself." So true, and more so for the crusty codger, Gerald (Joss Ackland) who takes life a little too seriously and shies away from gleeful moments that he considers undignified or embarrassing for a man of his age or position...until she enters into his heart.

An excellent film that was screened on British TV a year or so ago. Joss Ackland and Jean Simmons, two of our great actors, play a very tender and dignified scene of love in later-life.

I wish it was available on video. I want this!

I think this movie "Daisies in December" was one of the most enjoyable movies I have seen. It was funny, sad, romantic. Just a "heart warming" story.

I wonder if it is possible to purchase this movie on Video?

I work as a nurse in an Aged Care Hostel, I would Just love to be able to obtain a copy to show to my residents. I am sure most of them could relate to it,in "one way or an other"

Having worked in this setting, has helped me appreciate this movie even more. I is so much more difficult for men to settle into these situations, more so than women. Daisies in December portrayed the whole story so beautifully,

Nola

This is really a very beautiful film about love at old age. If you ever get the chance to see it, don't let it pass! The acting is great and it leaves an impression that will make you remember this film for the rest of your life.