The Republic of Love (2003) Reviews

DVD Talk Review: While an imperfect vision of love and romance, it rang true and gave this 40-something reviewer plenty to think about in his own social life. Check it out if you want to walk a bit off the beaten path, noting that you might find as much to like as I did. by Don Houston
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Yet another swell movie from Film Movement, THE REPUBLIC OF LOVE ought to have made a full-fledged star out of Bruce Greenwood, erstwhile next-big-thing. Greenwood's been good to brilliant in everything from "The Sweet Hereafter" to "Double Jeopardy," "Thirteen Days" (he played JFK), "Ararat" and so many more. He actually executive-produced this one, so clearly, he knows a good script and a good role: a wee-hours disc jockey with a "love" problem. Surrounded by other fine actors like Edward Fox and his daughter Emilia, Martha Henry, Claire Bloom, Rebecca Jenkins and--yes!--Jackie Burroughs, Greenwood still stands out--for his looks, charm and the reality he brings to each moment. Directed/co-written by Deepa Mehta from Carol Shield's novel, the movie doesn't always find the precise visual needed for a scene (the sudden plant growth toward the end is a bit much). But so many things are right about this look at love and maturity that I don't want to carp. I suspect you won’t, either.
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I loved Water and Fire by Deepa Mehta and I had high hopes for this movie even after I read the poor reviews. However, my hopes were soon dashed about fifteen-twenty minutes into the story. There was no element of sweetness and warmth. There was no chemistry between the main characters. I didn't care about either one of them, and I wanted to. I watched it to the bitter end. Not good!
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