I think I have a good overall general knowledge about gerontological movies. So, I'm always surprised to learn about yet another movie which I wasn't aware of. I must admit that until a week ago - I did not know about the movie Ladies in Lavender.
This is a 2004 British drama movie, staring two of the most wonderful current gerontological-movies stars: Judi Dench and Maggie Smith. Both of these actresses are true leaders and role models for excellent performances in the field of popular movies and aging.
The movie, directed by Charles Dance, is based on short story by William J. Locke. The plot is located in a small British coastal village of Cornwall in the 1930s. Two old sisters (Dench and Smith), living peacefully together in the village, discover one morning a young, handsome stranger (Daniel Bruhl) washed-up on the beach below their house. The sisters take him to their house, care for him, and the rest of the movie surrounds the developing comlicated relationships between the sisters, the stranger, and others in this quiet and peaceful village.
There is no doubt that the acting of both Dench and Smith is superb, and the way they interact and perform together is outstanding.
However, as a current gerontological movie, I must admit that I had some difficulties watching. To start, this is a very slow - some would say "British", or under-dramatic - film. Generally, in many stages, thing were simply not interesting enough, or the "under-statement" style was too much (at least for me).
But more importantly, while the figures of the two aging sisters - and their encounters with the young beautiful man - can be viewed as an example of strength of aging womanhood, overall - in my view - their story was not interesting enough: we learn very little of their life histories, very little about their aging, and in those few cases where the movie does delve into these issues - unfortunately, it falls many times into ageist stereotypes.
So, if you want to see a tour-de-force of Judi Dench and Maggie Smith - you should certainly see the movie. But if you're looking for a good gerontological movie - you can skip this one...
2004
UK
Director: Charles Dance
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8LKGIPn0FI
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