Review of My Old Lady (2014) by Jeff B — 19 Aug 2016

I enjoyed this film all around: narrative, performances, pacing, mood. It's a film about love and selfishness, a film about human weakness and human strength, a film about resentment and hope. Some complain that the film is rather dark and that suicide and death are its featured components. Nothing could be further from the truth. And even though Mathias has done little in his life and lost a lot, he never dwells in despair, and we can thank Kevin Kline for his balanced performance.

The story slowly unravels as more and more is revealed about Mathiasis' fathers affair with the "old lady," Mathaldie. Such a close connection in names it's a wonder Mathias didn't pick up on at any time--possible narrative flaw here. As stated, the film has dark, brooding overtones, yet Mathias never allows it to get to morose, that which can be attributed to Mr. Kline's natural bubbly inclinations.

There is tension between the characters, of course, but it's never allowed to get out of hand, the film often bouncing right back up to stay on an even keel, for who wants a film that is all dark and dire anyway? If you want that, go watch Saw, for a good waste of time.

Overall, a great film, and unlike many I sit down in front of these days, it kept me from beginning to end. Well done. Well done, indeed.