This movie is the story of the romance between a young male actor named Peter (Jamie Bell) and the famous actress Gloria Grahame (Annette Bening).  

The film opens with Gloria preparing for the evening in her dressing room (makeup etc). Shortly after getting ready, Gloria has a fall and requests the assistance of someone named “Peter” (Jamie Bell). It’s obvious that the two have had some history or possibly connection in the past. Gloria requests to stay with Peter’s home along with his family, who all choose to help Gloria as she recovers. The film provides us with touching flashbacks and a continuation of the present between both Gloria and Peter. 

I personally loved how our two characters had an instant connection as they begin to enjoy each other’s company and share common interests such as acting and theatre. The romance here is positive despite what others around them would normally think considering the age difference between them. 

From a performance level, actress Annette Bening steals the spotlight, and I found her to be downright glorious as she takes on the role of Gloria. Her character work is completely strong from start to finish. While Jamie Bell also works well overall, I did feel his introduction and what occurs in our 1st act could have done a little differently as it felt a little weak. Because of this, I would suggest anyone who views this film doesn’t give up because the film’s progress goes from strength to strength.

Being a film about actors in love, the film manages to also pay a great tribute to film and cinema in general. The film is also rather crafty with some of its film shots, in part in the transitions from past and present. It was also during these transitions that I was literally getting goosebumps just because it was done, well… all so beautifully. There is also some minor green screen work, but it is very forgiving considering the type of movie this is.

Overall, this is a romantic tale of a pair of actors who fell in love based on their instant connection. The film tells a great story through sharing the challenging past and present of both Gloria and Peter. Our beginning will feel a little light, in particular with regards to Peter’s introduction, but stick with it. The film and the actor’s chemistry is developed so well that in the end, it managed to bring goosebumps and even water to my eyes.

7.2/10

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Review Written by Peter Walkden