h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

...based on the book 'Love In Black and White', by Robert James Waller. The book (now printed under the same title as the film) is so popular, that it has been unavailable at my local library for many months, and has a several name waiting list!

I love it because it is 'real'... no artificial happy ending. It is a four-day-long love story between Robert Kincaid (a National Geographic photographer) and Francesca Johnson (a housewife and mother of two teenagers). Whilst her family is away for a few short days, Robert arrives to photograph the local covered bridges, and their feelings rapidly develop, until the decision has to be made as to whether they leave together or remain apart. The sight of Robert Kincaid (played by Clint Eastwood) standing soaked in the rain as they see each other for the very last time ever, followed by Francesca (played by Meryl Streep) gripping her hand on the car door handle, as she reconsiders leaving her husband and family, is one incredibly moving scene.

This film has two excellent and engaging lead characters, played brilliantly by Eastwood and Streep, plus an exceptional musical score, and fantastic Iowa scenery, all adding up to a true cinematographic masterpiece. My highest recommendations!

A close second for me is 'Out of Africa', again starring Streep, this time alongside Robert Redford. This one is actually based on a true story, and her own book, by Karen Blixen. Again, brilliant musical score, fantastic scenery, great characters and acting, and yes... another 'sad' ending.

Wonder what that says about me...?!

~A~