​FILMS

45 Years

It occasionally feels like 45 years to get there but the pay-off is superb

2016 review number 12:

45 Years: (Drama): 73 out of 100: 45 Years is a gentle British drama that takes a while to tell its story but when it comes together, the sum of all parts makes it a fulfilling experience. It is highlighted by brilliant performances by Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay as the couple celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary. However, the discovery of an ex-lover's body contributes to the confusion they both experience in the week leading up to their party. The theme allows both actors to master their craft with Rampling being nominated for an Oscar.

 

Geoff (Tom Courtenay) and Kate Mercer (Charlotte Rampling) have been happily married for 45 years. However, the discovery of Geoff's ex-lover's body from before the time he met Kate might change the course of their lives. In the week leading up to their 45th wedding anniversary party, Geoff reminisces about the time he spent with his old flame, infuriating Kate who didn't realise how deeply involved he was with her.

 

Andrew Haigh, the writer and director of 45 Years, is in no hurry to tell his tale so the movie feels longer than it actually is. What he does produce though is awkward silences between the couple which accentuate the drama they are experiencing. It is to the credit of both Courtenay and Rampling that they are able to express their emotions through facial expressions. They are consummate professionals at the top of their game. If Rampling was nominated for an Oscar for her performance then surely Courtenay must have been in the reckoning as well? Even though you know they are just acting, they make it seem like they are a real-life couple due to their chemistry.

 

The quaint English town in which they live is brilliantly brought to life on the screen. It might only be a small film in terms of budget but the locations give the context of the story an added feel. The music is also to be treasured with old hits like Smoke Gets In Your Eyes by The Platters and Stagger Lee by Lloyd Price, providing further depth to the story. If the some of the situations don't make you feel emotional then you have done better than me!

 

45 Years is for moviegoers who like their stories to be told with purpose, albeit at a leisurely pace. There are some wonderful aspects to extract from the film with the character development assisted by the lead actors' portrayals being the main one. Be patient and you will be rewarded.

 

Starring Charlotte Rampling, Tom Courtenay and Geraldine James

(95 minutes)

Parental advice: Coarse language and sex scene

Additional scene during or after credits: No

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg5cpiX18TA (Movie trailer)

 

(Reviewed on Thursday 21st January, 2016)

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