Une dernière danse

Maureen O'Hara was one of the most spectacular beauties in Hollywood history. When she made "The Last Dance," she was 82--and still a stunning woman. Because many of her films were action films and westerns, it's easy to forget that O'Hara was also an excellent actress. Here she plays a retired Latin teacher--yes, Latin was once taught in public schools, folks--who reconnects with a former student who is now a male nurse. The plot is reminiscent of "Good Morning, Miss Dove," with Jennifer Jones, another beauty who has aged well.

The former student keeps an eye on the teacher when she leaves the hospital, and soon his family (wife and two children) becomes involved as well. The plot is interesting, and the movie is well-written and very well-acted by the cast. What could easily slide into bathos is genuinely moving as the film gradually reveals via well-integrated flashbacks the teacher's life, past as well as present. A bus trip and a day at the beach are extremely well-done.

"The Last Dance" is one of those films that really has to be seen to be appreciated; it's very quietly done but beautifully realized. When you watch O'Hara, think about what most of the current crop of "actresses" will look like and what their performances will be like when they are in their eighties--if any of them manage to maintain a career past the age of thirty.

I caught this movie on Lifetime, but it had the Hallmark network feel to it. Sometimes this type of film can be overly sentimental, but I found this one to be wonderful as it emphasized the importance of taking time to love one another. Maureen O'Hara, at 80-something and looking great, plays a schoolteacher who becomes involved in the life of a former student and his wife. As a woman whose great love ended before the relationship could fully develop, she imparts what she has learned to them about what's really important in this world, and what really stays with those we leave behind when we go into the next one.

O'Hara is really inspirational. Her voice and acting are strong and her no-nonsense portrayal keeps "The Last Dance" from being cloying in any way. You really grow to love this woman and all she stands for. The flashback scenes are well cast.

A nice movie to catch, especially around the holidays.

Todd is a harried hospital nurse struggling to balance his hectic work and family lives, when he has a chance contact with an elderly patient: his high school Latin teacher.

Despite the untimely departure of her husband in her twenties, she developed a love for life and appreciation of friendship that she finds she must teach him. Drawing his wife and children into her life, she helps him achieve a better understanding of the essence of his existence, as she must resolve the final details of her own. A poignant, compelling tale, sad yet upbeat.

I was expecting a ho-hum story but instead I found myself pleasantly involved with the characters, especially Eric Stoltz, who wasn't a lawyer or a plumber, but a male nurse. This could have been very predictable but it wasn't, and I think that's why I enjoyed the story so much. It was great to see Maureen O'Hara, who I might add looks very pretty for her age. Overall this was a very touching movie.

This is an awesome movie. What a way for Maureen O'Hara to end her film career with this glowing, enchanting and beautifully haunting story.... Albeit this 'made for TV' effort is worthy of high praise, Australian Kevin Dowling's direction is outstanding as are all portrayals. (Check out another of his gems: 'The Sum Of Us'). The story, as reviewed by other contributors, is believable, has a moral tone that makes it perfect for younger folk. The theme demands special mention as many viewers will be in or close to the senior age level: How to accept that there is a proper time to dispose of one's lifelong possessions and pass them on to others who would not only value them, but extend their lifespan, does offer excellent advice.. City dumps are already overloaded!. I was fortunate enough to have recorded this movie on VHS tape at the time CBS aired it in 2000. On the evening prior to it's telecast, O'Hara was the special guest on Larry King Live. Again, just by chance, I was able to preserve this remarkable interview on VHS tape. O'Hara at 80 is full of life, humor and has definite perspectives on her life, film career and the male actors she starred with. Both presentations are part of my extensive collection of 'treasures' now virtually impossible to find and buy. Anyone interested? Contact me at gilturk@shaw.ca ( In Canada) .Thanks for reading.