1 Not Another One Like It !!
In my opinion, "Somewhere In Time" is the best and most beautiful love story ever put on the screen.
The music is so hauntingly beautiful, listening to it almost puts me in a trance... It sounds like an orchestra of angels in Heaven playing, with God as the Arranger, Composer, and Director. The music score is the life-blood of this movie. It is a MAJOR factor in the movie's overall effect.
I have to mention one scene... the scene where Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour)and Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve) go out together for the first time in the horse drawn carriage... later they are out on the lawn where a man is doing a painting on an easel. The next scene shows a side-shot of Christopher Reeve studying something very intently and talking about it at the same time (but you can't hear what he is saying because they muted it out)... in this scene Jane Seymour is facing him but is also facing very much toward the camera, wearing a beautiful dress, white gloves, red lipstick, and a big, beautiful hat... the camera moves in closer and closer toward her face, she blinks her eyes and smiles as she looks intently at her newly found love... In this scene of only about 10 - 15 seconds, JANE SEYMOUR IS SO ** INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL ** THERE ARE SIMPLY NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE HER. SHE LOOKS LITERALLY PERFECT. HER BEAUTY IS BEYOND COMPARE (This scene I am referring to is immediately before the scene where they are walking together on the shoreline in the distance toward the big, red lighthouse).
And lastly, it also occurred to me that "Somewhere In Time" is quite possibly the most passionate love story/movie ever made without ANY ** explicit ** sexual scenes... and I am most thankful it didn't have any... it would have greatly taken away from, if not ruined, the entire movie.
Obviously, I recommend it very highly. But it is still always a good idea to rent first, to be sure you want it for keeps, then buy it if you do.
2 I would like to see the second half of this movie
I remember it was the day before my 14th birthday that I saw the first half of this movie, and then my mom got home from work, and she's like "Get Back To Murder On The Orient Express". That was my reading class assignment. Anyway back to this movie. It grabbed me in the sense that Reeve was living his own life as a playwright, and he had pretty much no relationships, or any one to account for, but himself, and it was as simple as a woman brushing past him saying something about "Don't Forget Me" to turn his life upside down. It wasn't a command, or a plea. It was said in whispered tones to where only he could hear her. It gave me the impression of what Christ does to our hearts. Like that woman knocking on the door of Reeve's heart beckoning him to seek Jane Seymour back in 1912 Christ stands at the door of our heart, and knocks hoping we'll let him in. I haven't seen this now for almost 24 years, and would like to know what happens when he meets her in 1912. Do they fall in love? does he stay in 1912, or goes back to 1980? If he goes back to 1980 does she accompany him? Alot of unanswered questions that I would like to have answered. Hopefully I'll see this again real soon.
3 A Romance Classic: Love Endures through the Ages
Can Superman and Medicine Woman portray Romance with such Elegance?
I truly began to appreciate this wonderful romance after the fifth or sixth viewing. It took that long to appreciate the gems of prose, class-acting, and elegance portrayed by Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour in possibly their most heart-warming roles. Christopher Plummer also shines as the over-protective manager. Keep a box of kleenex handy. My favorite scene; the first stage scene where Elise (Seymour) slips out of script and opens her heart for the special gentleman seated in the audience This had such an impact on me that I wrote down the words and gave them as a gift to friends. And here they are in case you might like to do something similar. In the movie, the section is "The Man of my Dreams", but it works just as well, the other way with a few word changes. Here is the movie version... "The man of my dreams is almost faded now. The one I have created in my mind. The sort of man each woman dreams of in the deepest inner-most secret reaches of her heart. I can almost see him now before me. What would I say to him, if he were really here? Forgive me; I've never known this feeling. I've lived without it all my life. Is it any wonder then, I fail to recognize you? You brought it to me for the first time. Is there any way I can tell you how my life has changed? Any way at all to let you know the sweetness you have given me? There is so much to say and I cannot find the words, except for these; I love you."
Combine that scene with the follow-on back-stage presence of Elise and the heart-warming emotion that went into Elise's photo shoot (for THE picture), it literally took my breath away!
4 Somewhere in Time
I was taken aback by the awful report which your professional reviewer wrote about this film. I am so glad that the "ordinary" people who chose to write reviews thought much better of it.
My husband and I watched this film, by accident, one quiet Sunday afternoon when the Red Sox were rained out. We were absolutely fascinated by it. The love story was enchanting and hopeful, the acting was excellent, and we were swept up by the concept of time travel or time exchange. We kept asking ourselves "when did he get the watch" and other questions about the story which we never answered. Most of all, we were warmed by the incredible loyalty and faithfulness of the love which was portrayed.
Matheson is known better for his more routine type of scifi stories. However, twice he has written great love stories, and they have both been filmed. There is this one and the newer "Where Dreams May Come" starring Robin Williams. After you finish reading and\or watching "Somewhere in Time", I recommend you turn to "Where Dreams May Come".
My husband has passed away since we watched this film together. However, Matheson's writing brings hope that our love and marriage have not ended, and there might be a time, somewhere, for us to be together again.
I feel sorry for the official Amazon critic and for his\her cynicism. I hope something happens in the future which will allow this person to see this film through more hopeful eyes.
5 Wonderful love story
A friend recommended this movie and I'm glad he did. It's one of the best love stories I've ever seen on film. The characters are beatifully enacted by a very talented Christopher Reeve and what's her name. :) What a handsome and talented man he was. God Bless!.
I loved the costumes and scenery as well.
This is a classic worthy of praise.
6 If you could turn back time...
...what would you do? I can't understand why some people don't like Somewhere In Time. It has a different way to those sappy romance stories and being different is always better. It seperates itself from other movies. The way the movie was so interesting and how things came about. Time really worked with the people who made it possible. And the acting. Oh my gosh, the acting is amazing!
Richard Collier is a playright just barely entering the 1980's. He knows something is missing in his life but he just can't place his finger on it. Upon a spur of the moment vacation, he comes across the Grand Hotel which strikes him as inspiring, until it becomes even more with the history of 1912 it has behind it that in fact includes him, even though he is only 29 years old, and along this line, a woman is looking for him.
Though something has occurred along this line in time, Richard knows he has someone waiting for him, and that is he wants to find the woman he's been looking for, he'll have to sacrifice everything he knows and understands completely in the present for him to find his real life in the past, where Elise Mckenna and Richard will find each other in time.
Before Back To The Future even came out, the brilliant Somewhere In Time brought up the thought of time travel without a machine, but only using the power of the mind. It is in fact extremely believable the way it is explained, and how it is done, and that's not easy to do. There was no doubt in my mind throughout the whole thing that he had in fact done it, and the way the whole process was reversed was also incredibly believable.
The acting is amazing by the two very young Christopher Reeve (before his fateful accident) and Jane Seymour. The chemistry between the two is amazing. It made you feel as if they were chosen so perfectly for the parts, they were just meant to play those roles alone. I've seen them in other films, but none nearly as rememberable as in Somewhere in Time. Other fantastic actors such as Bill Erwin, and Christopher Plummer make this an even better movie to think and create an illusion in your own mind that you aren't watching a movie, but a real life story. I'm sure many people can relate to what happens throughout the film.
Even if you didn't like the film, one thing you cannot deny by the whole thing is the amazing music. The Rhapsodey by Rachmoninoff, which was composed by John Barry, created a whole essence to the movie and it's plot all by itself, and you couldn't help but notice it the whole time in the movie. I was really surprised that Rachmoninoff could do something so beautiful instead of always being heard with these loud thumps on the piano.
I just wish more romance movies would tangle with my mind such as Somewhere in Time. I'm only 14 and usually I like more action or horror movies, but in this case, Somewhere In Time did me over so much, the romantic feel to the movie somehow brough the imagination back out in me. Plus, the DVD has a really cool making of documentary on the film, and tells you so much you never knew about the film. It went a long way and still got criticized by reviewers. But I'm glad the public liked it. Even if you don't want to see it, at least see it, and maybe you'll find the romantic feeling within yourself. Don't let time pass you by before you see Somewhere In Time.
7 I'd rather watch the freezer defrost
OH MY GOODNESS!
I have always thought I would enjoy this movie and when I found it I was happy to finally see the film everyone had been raving about for so long. They were raving alright, stark raving mad!
I can hardly find the words to describe this movie, but I will try. Lackluster, boring, sappy, poorly acted, poorly written, stupid, juvenile, lame, stale and other such adjectives.
I am a fan of Jane Seymour but was disappointed to see her character falling in love with the boyish and sappy man played by Christopher Reeves. Whatever happened to the man of Steel? I can't imagine her EVER falling for his boring and babyish persona.
I was glad when he died. I found his costume ugly and unbelievable and he acting the worst yet. Why on earth go for someone like that when you have Christopher Plummer around? Please! His was the best acting in the film. I still can't believe I sat thought the whole thing. I suppose I kept hoping that it would improve. Sadly I was wrong and it continued to serve up the sap.
I'd rather watch 101 Dalmatians.
8 It was so silly I laughed!
Let me start by saying that my daughter and I love a good romance movie better than anything. Having said that we thought that this movie reeked! The whole premise of traveling back in time was executed very poorly. Also waiting for C.R. to think himself back in time was so drawn out and boring!!!! C.R'S character seemed so weak that I couldn't imagine being attracted to him. The romance scenes made me laugh because you just couldn't take C.R'S advances seriously, he seemed silly. I don't blame Jane Seymour or Chris Reeves for this. I think the screenplay for it was dreadful and the directing just as bad. If you want to watch something romantic watch "Sense and Sensibility" with Emma Thomson and Alan Rickman. Now there's a movie worth watching.
9 "Is It You?"
Ok picture me a young 8 years old... maybe 7. I saw what is still now my most favorite movie of all time. This one. I do not see how people got loop holes in this. I have seen this movie about, (and I am not kidding with this) 200-300 times. There is not a single loop hole in this. The movie shows the boundaries of love. It shows that if u love and believe enough neither Time nor Death will hold it back. If your want to completely understand this movie, and I say this to EVERY person I tell 2 watch this movie, watch it AT least twice. You will not understand it unless u see it at least twice. if u watch it only once u will not get it. The more u see it the more u will get it. This movie is PERFECTION from the soundtrack to the costumes. I almost spent a night in the hotel on Mackenac Island in Elise's room. Until I found out it was over $700 per night. I mean who is going 2 spend that $$$? The movie is a guy that is down and going 2 escape. It opens up at the opening of an aspiring playwrite in college. The opening night was a success. An elderly woman comes up 2 him out of nowhere and puts something in his hand and says: "Come Back To Me". And leaves. Everyone asks who she was and he said he had no idea. He looks in his hand and it is a pocket watch. Several years later he is an accomplished Playwrite but is in a slump. He decides to go on a pseudo vacation. He ends up at this hotel on a whim. He finds a picture. The picture has his attention. He is obsessed with it. The picture draws him in. He asks who it was by a guy that worked there for about 60 years. Arthur says "Elise McKenna that picture was taken in... 1912". Richard decides since he is so drawn to 2 the beauty in the picture he needs 2 find out more. He goes 2 the local library. He researches Elise Mckenna. He finds out she was an actress. One of the most accomplished actresses in the very early 1900's. Volumes and volumes. And he comes across the last picture that was taken of her... it was the woman that gave him the pocket watch a few years ago. I am not going 2 tell u the end it is up 4 u 2 watch. But watch it several times and u will love it also. And this movie actually beats out the book "Bid Time Return". That is VERY odd.
10 elements of great love story
these elements are sufficient (maybe also necessary) conditions for a great love story.
1. difficulty for lovers. time travel turns out to be of great difficulty, especially to the past. It is nearly impossible. Elise could move close to a black hole and come back so as to travel to the future if she knew that Richard had come from 68 years later. Anyway, it's difficult;
2. "come back to me", "is it you?" words like that;
3. Elise's address to Richard on the stage;
4. Elise's belief that she was going to meet someone near the lake to change her life, which makes "love at first sight" plausible. Such belief of fate for the female part;
5. also many great movies needs time for people to accept them, especially you need to watch it for multiple times to get it and start to love it. so the box office won't be good to start with
P.S.
I initially watched it because someone told me it's a science fiction of time travel by Richard Matheson. I watched it on a 5 inch black-white portable TV connected to my dvd player, since my color tv was occupied for video game only. And, yes, I love the movie. I also read the original book, "Bid Time Return". Planning to visit grand hotel, maybe, room 416. wonder if they still ask you to sign the guest book there.
11 "Come back to me."
For many this film takes the notion of "soul mates" and pushes it to extremes. We've all experienced at one time or another a "first love". It usually happens in our adolescence, this special relationship may last only weeks and sometimes years, but inevitably, it fades for a variety of reasons, though years can pass, and the thought of them returns when we least expect it - a conversation, a stranger at a restaurant or a song on the radio, all these things can spark their memory. What if there was a way to actually return to that time and see them again as they were...? What if a total stranger approaches you and gives you something, a memento, and asks you to come back to them? Only later you discover a photo of that person and feel with all your heart that you know them. You've never actually met them before, but you just `know' that you've met them somewhere, and you would do anything to see them again.
Somewhere in Time is a fantasy that takes this notion of "lost loves' and turns it into reality. Our protagonist meets his soul mate and becomes so obsessed with seeing her again, that he actually transverses time and space in order to accomplish this. He succeeds, but there's always a catch. This is a sentimental tale that makes no apologies for being so, it is what it is, and maybe that's why it has retained its appeal for so many people over so many years.
The late Christopher Reeves does a fantastic job as the besotted time traveller - a naive, bumbling writer in love with a woman who existed before he was born. He delivers a wonderful performance at that moment when he finally goes back in time. His reaction is nothing less than perfect. When he sees his lost love for the first time at the hotel, the romantic soundtrack flowing in the background, the majority of us set our cynicism aside, and feel the protagonist's excitement and awe... I suppose that is one of the keys to watching this sentimental film, suspending our propensity for cynicism, our world-weariness, and relating to these people whose love for each other knows no bounds.
Chris Reeves will always be remembered as Superman, but for me, this performance as the besotted time traveller in search of his lost love, will always stand out as one of his greatest performances.
12 Well Done Adaptation of Romatic Time Travel Story
In some ways this review is a little difficult to write because I read the book before seeing the movie and I suspect I would have reacted differently to the movie had I not read the book. Specifically, I don't think I would have liked it.
That said I did like this movie very much. Somewhere in Time is based on the novel Bid Time Adieu by Richard Matheson. The book is now titled Somewhere in Time because of the popularity of the movie.
For those not familiar with either: Richard Collier is a 36-year old writer who falls in love with a beautiful actress - Elise McKenna. But there's one big problem. She's dead. She lived years ago in another time. But that doesn't stop Richard who figures out a way to travel back in time and win her heart. And that is basically all there is to the plot, a romantic love story between two misplaced souls.
The movie is very well written and is, for the most part, true to the book. Of course Richard Matheson, the book's author, wrote the screenplay so that isn't surprising. The good thing about the movie is it moves along at a reasonably nice pace and the mood it evokes is very much like the book - a nostalgic setting and ethereal romance. The lighting, the pace, the set, and the very good acting make the move work.
The stars of the movie were the late Christopher Reeves - whose unruly hair and kind of stiff but gangly bigness make Richard Collier a likeable goof. Jane Seymour was fabulous as Elise McKenna. And Christopher Plummer, in the role of her overbearing manager, played his role to the hilt.
Overall this movie is definitely a thumbs up and one I'm glad I own.
13 Great Guilty Pleasure!
OK, I know it is corny. I know it is hopelessly romantic. And yes, I know it is a total fantasy. BUT, I am a total sucker for this film. Makes me want to go back in time. And as a theatre junkie, it is a lovely bonus that it is set in and about two people in the theatre as well. Can make even the most jaded cynics shed a tear or two.
14 Timeless Treasure
Wes, you are not alone! More and more I talk with men who are just as entranced with this film as women. This includes my husband (who, granted, is European and naturally romantic) and also a professional classical musician. Guys, you really ought to give this movie a chance. Come on, WHO among you can resist the notion of time travel? Reeve is totally masculine, Seymour utterly feminine, this film is romantic but not wimpy! It's a great "date movie," a great way to reignite romance, a great way to escape, great for whatever! The actors portray the characters with a sincerity that is simply not seen in today's films. Not only sincere, the acting and story are such that the viewer is not only willing -- but EAGER -- to suspend disbelief. The cinematography alone is stunning.
It was *this* film that made Christopher Reeve a Superman, in my and many other, eyes.
I was one of the lucky few who actually saw SIT in the movie theatre/first run. I recently discovered it was in theatres for only a few weeks! I was twenty years old at the time, and this film swept me away. In some ways, unlike Collier, I have never returned. I know I'm not alone!
Interestingly, this film has its own fan club and website. The Grand Hotel even hosts an annual SIT weekend! Talk about a film's staying power!
Ladies -- and definitely gentlemen -- this film is not only a "don't miss," it is something to treasure always.
15 I am a man - and am secure enough to admit: I LOVE THIS FILM
Some of it you smirk at. But for sheer romanticism, this is epic. I remember watching this many, many years ago and it ripped my heart out when she discovered the coins in Richard's pocket - her reaction literally hurt in my chest, it was so powerful, so tragic. Watching the forlorn face and utter depression of Reeve in the devastating aftermath...well, if you've loved and lost, you can definitely feel it and identify with him. When he finally got Elise to go out with him and watching their first date together was sheer bliss. The music, the tenderness, the sincerity...my own heart SWOONS just remembering it. This is one of two chick flicks I'll cop to. I admit it: I am a delusional romantic at times. This film NEVER fails to bring it out.
16 Some Good acting, but the time travel is citched....
This is perhaps the one movie that Chris Reeve showed us that he started out as a theater actor who eventually made it big at the movies. Here for the first half hour or so that he is reading about the life of the actress that he wants to love, he shows his stage training quite well. It's honest and to the point and you can like it for that degree of professionalism that he gave it, however after we do the time travel stuff, and the love story that sounds so much like as The World Turns, and then the predictable ending, you have to turn the movie off and say that bad script writing ruined what might have been a great picture after it got off to a strong start in the first 1/2 hour.
17 The first movie that stole my heart
Pocket-size plot summary: Boy sees girl in an old photo from the early 1900s. Boy wants to meet girl so he goes back in time, meets girl, loses girl...the rest is up to you to discover.
(WARNING: This movie IS for the faint of heart and those who weep openly! You will cry so get those tissues out now! No shame need be involved as this will remind you of all the joys and sorrows of being in love. You might need a little aspirin for the paradoxes of time travel, but that's what makes this fun and keeps those tissues from getting completely soaked.)
Back in 1982, "Somewhere in Time" aired on network television. I sat through the film spellbound by the beautiful scenery and sincere acting. Critics in 1980 (when the theatre-run movie first opened) did not like it nor could they understand why anyone else would. At the time I was only 12, at an "impressionable" age where B movie fare such as "Xanadu" and "Grease 2" made me ooh and ah. Twenty-two years later, I still love this romantic fantasy as much as ever, even though I tend to go for more mind-bending work such as "Mulholland Drive."
What the critics don't get and what is just plain wonderful is that "Somewhere in Time" no longer carries a "bad movie stigma." The Richard Matheson-scripted film enjoys a strong following among people who love lavish cinematography and lush film scores. Quirky movie guides often list "Somewhere in Time" as a must-see. You don't need a book or a critic, though, when you've got that magic feeling you get from this Jeannot Szwarc-directed piece. Movies today may be a lot smarter, charge your brain better and depict our often cruel world with frightening clarity, but can you honestly remember the last time your heart was tugged at with gooey-free innocence and yearning? If not, give "Somwhere in Time" a chance.
Many who enjoy Christopher Reeve's varied film career cite "Superman" as the work that made them take notice. For me, it was his role as the good-hearted Richard Collier who goes the distance for true love and is unwilling to face its loss. Jane Seymour, the 80s tv-miniseries darling and now a beloved celebrity, proved she could lend an understated touch to her acting and a modesty that suited the 1910 setting of "Somewhere in Time."
18 Best Christopher Reeve Romance
We are all saddened by Christopher Reeves passing. Most of us know him as Superman, but a few know some of his dramatic and romantic roles as well. I have seen almost everything he has done and this to me is his best romantic role. Christopher and Jane Seymour are wonderful as the couple from different time periods that fall deeply in love and then are separated by their times. A coin plays a pivotal part in separating them, but love can not be denied. Heartbreaking and terribly romantic with a wonderful ending. A great price for this DVD. The quality of the picture and sound is excellent. If you like this be sure to catch Reeve in "The Aviator" too.
19 Truely Moving
I read the book before watching the movie, the movie was a little different, with a few things left out. It was a very heart warming adaptation of the book by Richard Matheson. I found it odd that the day Christopher Reeve pasted away I had finished reading the book and watched the movie. It has become one of my favourite movies ever, of any genre. The cast is amazing, all the characters were wonderfully played, especially Reeves Collier character.
A truely heartwarming, moving, lovley story.
20 Quit apologizing for what you love
Some films strike a chord in the human soul and excell far beyond the expectations of their creators. Is this a perfect film? Neither are you. I'm not entirely sure why time travel has so much appeal, but I'm guessing it is due to the imperfect nature of our actions, lost chances, and eras between wars that stand apart from our own. And of course, the blossom of love--eternal, sweet, and distinct from things weathered by time and circumstance. As for time travel, lucid dreaming and astral projection are the avenues to investigate. Jane Seymour, she's married. Find your own damn sweetheart.
21 The best part of this movie............
.........is that it can't happen. That's about the best part of ANY movie. Fantasy and an open mind about things we wish COULD happen is what Hollywood and movies are all about.
What's the fun in a movie if what you were watching was a daily occurence?
I loved the theme, the music, the acting and the style. It's a must for the hopeless romantic.
22 Flawed but memorable
It is easy to identify the flaws in this film: paradoxes abound, the pace is too slow at times, the acting is a bit uneven, plot is minimized.
So, why is it memorable?
1. This is Christopher Reeves's best performance.
2. Despite the holes and loopholes, the story is romantic and appealing.
3. The scenery is gorgeous.
4. The music, although a bit repetitive, fits the film well.
5. The whole film has an ethereal atmosphere to it.
The end result is a movie that feels like a dream: it doesn't necessarily make much sense, but it leaves a definite impression.
23 SAPPY AND CORNY, BUT STILL PRETTY COOL....
This movie is like a love story from "The Twilight Zone" I'm a manly man, who likes a good romance story once in a while. This is a very good one. Jane Seymour is lookin' FINE in this timeless flick. Sure, there are some plot-holes here, but overall, I would recommend this movie to anyone.,guy's included. John Barry's music score is excellent as well.
24 He's out there somewhere
I saw this film many years ago and fell in love with it immediately. It's a powerfully moving saga of how strong the ties of love really are.
I just ordered my dvd copy since I only had it on video before they sell out. Christopher Reeve passed away yesterday Sunday, October 10, 2004. He will be missed.
25 Love but no story
I was very disappointed in that movie. The plot can be told in one sentence: Guy falls in love with a woman on an old photograph and travels back in time to be with her. There is no story about the time travel. It just is not explained. There is no story about the guy. The only thing we get to know about him is that he writes scripts and recently had a girlfriend who dropped him. There is no story about the women. The only thing we get to know about her is that she is an actress and looks nice on a photo. There is no story about the lifestyle in the past. Except that they wore silly hats. There is no story about the portier, Arthur. Exept that he was 70 year younger 70 years ago and liked to play with a red ball.
There are not only holes in the plot, there is no plot. Not to mention that things just do not fit together. I mean, if you were to be in a place without everything around you to remind you of the present, wouldnt you sit naked in the woods instead of a hotel room? Then the penny which destroys everything. Wasnt it there all the time? How did she finally find out about him? And, above all: How could he, who is SO in love with her, go to his first date with tissues on his razor cuts?!
I almost liked the end. But then there was all this bright light and...
26 A great movie about hard to find women
First of all, I want to know why women are drawn to this film. It's mesage of female stalking has probibly not been a good influance on some men.
With that out of the way this movie is awsome!! There arn't many romance movies that I like but this flick has just the right mix of sci-fi and romance. It gives us single guys hope for the future in an interesting story about going into the past. Toward the end there is almost too much emotion. Miss Mcenna's "Richard!!" at the end still gives me chills.
27 Good
I guess this holds more appeal to me than my own personal taste. It was my grandparents favorite movie, and soundtrack. I was even asked to play the title theme on my violin at my grandfather's funeral. Incidentally, he died after his wife and was going to meet her. God, how can't I feel something eerily bonding about this film.
The whole time travel thing sucks. LOL It just makes no sense. The most boring part of the film is his trip back through time. Twenty minutes of, "Yes, he makes it. Can we get on with this already?" The whole score is what moves me to pieces. And the whole romantic scenes. I doubt that this kind of thing ever happens in real life. Vastly more often one will fall deeply in love with the other, but not vice versa. It's happened to me. It's a classic that I now have in my collection.
28 The ultimate romantic movie
I feel I have to stand up in defence for this fabulous movie. I've loved watching it from when I was a child, and I think it's possibly the most romantic story ever put onto celluloid.
I mean, show me a woman who wouldn't want a man to be so much in love with her that he would travel through time to be with her!
This movie is severely underrated. The love story is beautiful and tragic and you really feel for these characters. It's one of those rare examples of a film getting under your skin, so much so that days after watching it, you still find youself contemplating what could have been.
In my opinion, the two leads do a wonderful job of convincing the audience that they're in love. Jane Seymour especially moves you as you realise that she is afraid of loving him, due mainly to the fact that it's so overwhelming for her. Christopher Reeve as well gives a sterling performance.
The setting, the supporting characters and, in particular, the score make this movie a feast for anyone with a romantic bone in their body.
You'd have to be a cynic indeed to not enjoy this movie, and you'd be denying yourself a treat if you don't see it!
29 Entertaining but...
This movie is a poor man's Time and Again. This story was written after Time and Again and is a total ripoff of the story. Time and Again could not be made into a movie because the rights were owned by Robert Redford. Instead, Time and Again was made into a lousy musical and they made the movie Somwhere in Time. If you want to read a great book, get Time and Again and it's sequel.
30 Come Back to Me
I wasn't a Richard Matheson fan until I saw this movie. In fact, this is one of the only movies that I'd recommend over the book! But whether you're a die-fard Matheson fan or an average movie-goer, this DVD should be in your collection.
31 Not just a chick flick
OK, so sue me. I love NFL football, science fiction, and action movies, and I *love* Somewhere In Time.
Sure, it's cornball. Sure, it's totally unrealistic. But this fabulous romance is all heart and little brain, which in my experience is the very definition of romance. The twist that draws me in is the SF twist of time travel, but the one that keeps me watching this classic is that I'm an honest-to-goodness sucker for unrequited love, which this film absolutely defines.
It doesn't hurt that gorgeous Jane Seymour is a dead ringer for my old high school girlfriend, the one who got away (my fault, not hers; she was clearly too good for me).
Guys, let yourself enjoy this flick, especially with your lady. Sure, it's MOSTLY a chick flick, but put yourself in Christopher Reeve's shoes for a couple of hours and score some points on the sensitivity scale. Really, this won't hurt at all. :-}
32 Get the Ben & Jerry's and settle in...
At times this movie does put the "suspension of disbelief" to the test... it is far-fetched, but enjoyable if you allow yourself to accept the story as it's presented. The acting is ok, the music beautiful and haunting.
This is a great movie for those times when you feel the need to have an emotional outlet. There are some scenes where you can almost think it's a comedy, and then the mood changes to something more serious. The end seemed a little awkward, and is a real tear-jerker if you've let yourself get sucked into the story. With a pint of Ben & Jerry's and a few tissues (and some friends, if you're into sharing tears with them), it's worth the time if you're in the mood.
33 In a Class by Itself
As other reviewers have said, this movie seems to transcend all of its faults and strike a a very personal chord in the romantics among us. Its intense romanticism prompts us to break the rules in judging what makes a good movie, much as Christopher Reeve's love for Jane Seymour allows him break the rules of time. And, the movie is even more poignant today, since it's about going back into the past, and it reminds us of the past physical vibrance of Christopher Reeve, not as Superman, but as the healthy young man he was.
In many ways, this is Reeve's movie. He almost ruins it with his occasional lapses into Clark-Kentish oafishness, but he also injects into the film its dreamy sweetness, with his hungering eyes and his boyish awe of Miss Seymour. Speaking of her, I think she is one of the most beautiful and competent screen actresses in films and I have no idea why she never really became a huge movie star.
Christopher Plummer adds the right notes of meanness, thinly-veiled jealousy, lurking menace, and his own inner hurt as the blunt end of a love triangle. He also embodies reality, reminding us, by his dissapproving presence, of the vulnerability of the fragile love affair between Reeves and Seymour.
The special segment on the making of the film (in the collector's edition DVD) is a good one. It convincingly shows that the director, crew, and cast loved making this film and had high hopes for it. It also provides some interesting insights into how the novel was adapted for the screen and the choices, sometimes painful, that had to be made in the process. It's gratifying that this segment, which is low-key and refreshingly sincere, features the three principal stars of the film, the director, the composer, the author, and other players and crew members. Only the composer, John Barry, seems a bit taken with himself.
Somewhere In Time was nominated for the American Film Institute's list of the 100 most romantic movies of all time, but it didn't make it. As far as I'm concerned, it should have topped the list.
34 Somewhere in Time
I really didn't care for this movie that much.I guess it's just not my genre.The film seemed very boring.The plot is extremely deep and intellect which is probably the only reason it got such a good grade.The dialogue is your usual love/romance dialogue.Everything is just so much like a fantasy that I felt stupid.If this was a book it was probably really well written and this would have been a good adaption, but this just isn't my type of film.I think I would have liked it better with a different cast.Christopher Reeve did a good job ;though.The setting is also nice.That and some of the plot is mainly the only reason it gets a 6.It lies on border line of fresh/rotten.Only check this one out if your a fan of the genre.
"Come back to me." These were the strange words uttered by aged actress Elise McKenna to playwright Richard Collier, and they have haunted him ever since. When he hears that Elise has died, an irresistible impulse leads him to travel to the historic hotel where she lived. There he discovers an old photograph of Elise and realizes, to his amazement, that in another life he was once her lover.
Richard wills himself into the past and meets Elise again, now young and beautiful and acclaimed. Their romance blossoms anew, but not even true love can defeat the power of time...
35 The Romance of What Might Have Been....
"Somewhere In Time" does not boast great acting, particularly from Mr. Reeve, but what it does do is remind us of our losses and how they can tug at your heart throughout your life. This film is about love - and not especially just romantic love. We all would like to have 5" with someone we have lost, to tell them how much we love them. We would like that chance to go back and perhaps do or say things differently. This surely must exist in a small place in the corner of all our hearts, and this film finds that corner.
I would like to have seen someone more convincing in the lead role, but Reeve does his best and Seymour is the epitome' of beautiful femininity, as always. It is visually and musically lush (a more romantic soundtrack could not have been found). It is also nice to see Christopher Plummer and Teresa Wright in supporting roles. If you are a romantic, this film will haunt you - and remind you of the best part of your lost love....
36 Haunting, romantic and sublime!
"Somewhere in time" is one of the most romantic love-stories ever written and made into a movie. A love that defies time itself. It presents us with a vision that the one you're supposed to love and be loved by IS out there, even beyond time itself. It is one of the most intense fantasies ever. So many reviewers already gave a synopsis, so let me get straight to what I think is the heart of the movie. This movie is a fairy tale with a message on love. People either accept it happily or sneer, the latter I find to be sad. This movie gives us young Jane Seymour, the goddess of mini-series as the leading lady. This is perhaps one of the most beautiful women ever, today she is still incredibly beautiful at 50+. Her chemistry with Chris Reeve is absolutely thrilling. But here the MUSIC is like a first rate actor too, I find it to be the most romantic film-music ever written, together with the music from "Gone with the wind" and "The Thorn Birds". This movie and novel will be cherished as long as women love and men care.
37 One of the greatest love stories ever...
I saw this movie the first time when it first came out about 20 years ago. I never forgot it and how it made me feel - such deep passion and heart wrenching love. I had a bad copy of it on VHS so I was thrilled when I found out that this DVD was coming out. I bought it immediately and watched it over and over. Then I watched the special features and just fell in love with the movie all over again. It was awesome seeing the characters describe what they felt making the movie, the little bits of trivia, etc. I would highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves a good love story.
38 SUCKS
OK, my mom was like, "Hey, Jon, can we watch this?" So I was like,"Sure mom, just for you I will, even though I hate chick flicks." So we watched and it figures my mom falls asleep, so i got stuck watching it. I'll be honest it wasn't bad, until the end. It just ruins the whole movie and I couldn't believe how it turned out. I wanted to smash my TV it sucked that bad. Don't watch it, it's wasting your life. I'm not kidding. I know all you girls are like,"Oh he is ,like, a boy ,like, I can't believe ,like, he doesn't ,like, understand!" But I do and trust me ,don't watch it. But if you do watch it, you will agree with me(except for you select few that thought it was good). Let this one pass.
39 Needs to be redone
This film needs to be remade using 2004 technoligy.And could stand using more parts of the book in it
40 Much more than a movie....
I've thought about what I could say in this review to convey my true feelings for this film but it's very hard to put into words. This movie touched me when I saw it for the first time during a very difficult time in my life. For those with sensitive hearts, we all have something in life that we hold dear to us as a reminder of hope and love... whether it be a picture, a piece of jewelry, etc. For me, I carry the spirit of this movie with me, that's how powerful it has been in my life.
Can I explain it? Probably not. Will some think I'm fanatical or a little crazy in the head? Perhaps, but believe me I'm a very rational person. I love this movie.
To those who have not yet seen this movie, please don't try to critique the acting performances or the storyline if you watch it. This is not a movie for detailed criticism. Why? Because it's already been criticized enough. We've heard it all before. If you don't like it because it's too romantic or far fetched then that's understandable... this movie isn't for you. This movie was made for a different kind of audience, and audience that doesn't care about Hollywood stars, special effects, or big budget hype. It's a love story, pure and simple, told in a very beautiful way. Let your guard down and let this movie take a hold of you. You might be surprised where you go.
Oh, and if that's not enough, the musical score to the film is STUNNINGLY gorgeous. John Barry is a master or bringing emotion to every scene and touching us where we are softest.
Skeptical? Just think about how much an open mind can reveal.
Fans of the film will certainly appreciate the 1 hour documentary on the making of the movie which is very extensive and informative.
41 Absolute Magic
I don't have to think twice that this would be most serene and charming Love Story ever made.
I even liked it more than the Love Story and Titanic itself because it didn't have a hint of commercial cinema in it.
A simple movie with the Most Beautiful actress Jane Seymour and Reeve is just unbelievable in his acting.
Theme Music is just out of this world and everything about the Movie makes Magic. Whoever took Seymour's photo for the movie has made total magic and anyone would find glued to that Photo just like Reeve does in the movie.
This movie will take you back in time!!!
42 A Heartland Tug at the Heart
I've just finished watching the movie as part of a TV Valentine's Day Movie Weekend. It certainly belongs with a group of love and romance movies,and the touch of science fiction won me right away.
Did you ever lay in your bed and hope, and dream, that if you really concentrated, you could travel to Mars? I used to do it frequently when I was a teenager, and I guess I never concentrated enough, because I never quite made it to the Red Planet.
Well here Christopher Reeve tries and then tries again, to go back to 1912 to be with the every-lovely Jane Seymour, a noted actress from that period. Somehow he succeeds. Bravo on behalf of all romantics and science fiction fans out there!
Her manager tries to quench the hot and growing romance between these two,but he not only has to compete with their desire, but with the stately historic hotel in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and all its trappings. Kind of like the Chicago Cubs trying to get to a World Series.
Anyway, see the movie, buy it and cherish it. Today when I saw it I started to think about poor Christopher Reeve, now paralyzed from an accident. I pray that he can overcome that affliction, just like he overcame decades of time to be with the woman he loved.
Earl in romantic Northern Alaska
43 Why My Perspective Is Valuable:
In 1980, when this film reached cable TV, I was an insufferably-obnoxious and entirely-nerdy nine-year-old boy. I approached the movie strictly as a fan of time travel (and, obviously, curious to see how "Superman" acted in other films.) I was not interested in girls, and I *certaintly* wasn't interested in romance stories.
This film just punched right through all that, through the facade of cynicism and superiority young boys so often affect. It's a true tear-jerker -- rather than "adding" pathos to a mediocre plot, the situation is inherently conflicted. The romance of it is so undeniable, you don't need to be in love (or even BELIEVE in love) to be carried away by this overwhelming story.
Having just ordered the DVD, I am recalling the film from memory. I may update this review after a fresh viewing.
44 The ending I would have liked to have seen.
A beautiful love story with a beautiful musical score, unfortunately I never liked the ending which basically had them meeting in heaven, which meant that she still lived a horribly unhappy and lonely life and he died young and unhappy.
The ending I would have liked to have seen would have had the penny that returned him to the future 'magically' drop from the bed (after his frustrating attempts to return, failed) and roll out of the room (under the door), then fade onto the picture of her and watch it morph into a picture of THEM, leaving us with the understanding that he returned back in time and they lived happily after after.
45 Romance or fatal attraction?
I saw this movie for the first time when i was about 15 I loved it then thinking it was a great romantic story. However watching it now, i can't help but think of richard's character as a stalker in time. When my husband pointed out how creepy this guy really comes off I couldn't help but laugh at how true that statement really was. First of this guys becomes obsessed with a picture of a woman he doesn't know. Then he travels back in time to follow her around. Not to mention he makes an attempt to ask her out at 6am in the morning. Even when she tries to turn his offer down he refuses to take no for an answer which makes me wonder what would he do if she didn't share his feelings...All in all it ends in such a sad way where one should feel sorry for the poor guy but really he just acts pityful. One could look at the story as part of destiny and just admire the beautiful couple but other than that it really could almost be compared to fatal attraction, the crush or fear. It's kind of funny looking at it that way I at least can't take this film seriously anymore :)
46 A 'GUY' movie...Better than Terminator.
I am offended by the reviewers who have referred to this movie as a "chick flic."
I am a guy, with red blood, and I am exclusively heterosexual; yet this movie is my favorite movie.
Anyone who doesn't give this movie 5 stars must have never truly kissed a woman. Have you ever kissed a woman, just kissed her gently, and you both were sent high up into the air, even above the clouds, you both could feel your bodies floating up and up and up. Your hand was on HER back, but you could feel that same hand on YOUR back, as if you were her, for that moment. You experienced it both through your own lips, and hers. It was magical.
If you HAVE experienced this, you will relate to this movie.
If you have NOT experienced this, you are missing out on LIFE...
This movie speaks to me on the deepest level of who I am. I consider it so sacred a movie, and unlike any other, that I don't mention its name to my friends. Even the few who have discovered my connection with the movie have been asked by me to not talk about it, even in the most positive terms. Pearls are not meant to be cast before swine, and if you don't keep pearls tightly clenched in your fist, you never know when the swine are around you, which might snatch the pearl.
47 THE ALCHEMY OF A GRAND ROMANCE.
True romantics will love 'Somewhere in Time' with its haunting overtones of other fantasy romances: 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir', 'Portrait of Jennie' -- and touches of 'Laura' too, with a man falling in love with a portrait. Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour are perfectly cast in the leads with Christopher Plummer in a memorable supporting role.
Of all the films to which Jane Seymour has brought grace, this one might be her shining glory. She is effecting and lovely as in this appearance and perfectly cast. Her brief soliloquey on stage is by itself well worth the price of admission.
The settings are fantastic -- including the Lake Michigan hotel area -- and costumes, photography and music give added weight to the slight story. John Barry is a composer of film scores whose work never ceases to please and charm. His signature counterpoint of deep strings responding to the central theme reach the depths of the heart. His contribution here is exacting.
However, the towering success of this film is in its managing to bring light to the this elevated plane of a grand romance, so rare that most of us never even see it for ourselves in a lifetime, much less experience it. We all yearn for it. It is the aerial dream of souls that have evolved to subtle levels of discernment.
It is for this reason that this film has risen and continues to rise to the level of a cult favorite and far above the heads of its boorish critics. Yes, it's fantasy, but so is true romance.
48 Superb time travel fable
This is a time-travel fantasy on a par with "Back To The Future," but far more romantic, and using, arguably, a more interesting device for time travel: self-hypnosis. The fantastic premise is simple: what if convincing yourself you were in the past actually took you there somehow?
First, the basics. The script is great. The plotting is airtight. The cinematography is perfect. The acting is very good. The direction, and the timing of action, is stellar. It has what I'd call the best on-screen kiss. And the crowning feature of the film is something I don't dare mention.
What makes the film work, though, is that it doesn't spell it all out for you. At its end you'll be thinking lots of "hows" and "whys", and wanting to see it again to figure things out better.
Jane Seymour (as actress Elise McKenna) is luminous here. Christopher Reeve is winningly gawky and hunky at the same time. Their romantic tension is palpable, and it makes their high-speed love affair very convincing. Christopher Plummer has great substance as Elise McKenna's protective manager.
This film at once takes romance seriously, and uses time travel to create a mind-bending plot that will haunt you afterward.
The only weakness of this film is that it is a bit light on the characterization. We see that Richard (Reeve) and Elise (Seymour) love each other, and we must guess that it is ultimately because of their love for the theatre, but this is never made fully explicit. Still, this "weakness" is in the nature of this very plot-driven film. It's mainly a series of events that all fit together like a puzzle, rather than a study of human nature. That the romance is so believable is a tribute to the acting and the direction, rather than the script.
49 A beautiful and at times difficult movie......a near classic
First of all, this is a beautiful period piece..set in 1912. The story is fairly simple though it is hard to precisely figure out whether Jane Seymour's character or Reeves's character initiated the "contact" with the other. The score by John Barry (responsible for James Bond music 1962-1985) is SUPERB and that and the scenery alone are worth the price of admission.
Jane Seymour is (and today STILL is)a stunningly beautiful woman! The chemistry between the two is excellent.
This is not a chic flick nor is it a corny old romantic story alone. It is an almost classic plot with quite a bit imagination to help it along and to update it. After all, the movie started and ended in 1979 when it was shot.
50 THIS IS A CULT FILM.
"Somewhere In Time" is a cult film. That means that half the people will think that this is a masterpiece, and the other half will think that this is simply a good movie.
"Somewhere In Time" tells the story of a writer from 1972 that develops an obsession with the image of a young actress from 1912, somehow he thinks that this woman is someone important in his life. So he finds a way to travel back in time: he can concentrate and separate himself from his actual time, and project himself in the past (...) to find his love interest.
"Somewhere In Time" doesn't have great special effects, doesn't have spectacular performances, but does have a charming story that will provide two hours of good, clean entertainment. The movie is especially recommendable for the romantics, usually they are the greatest fans of this movie and they think that this is a classic.
51 How do I love thee...
I this story we have one of the most handsome men in the world, and one of the most beautiful women in the world, on the same set.
Set in the 70's, playwright Richard Collier becomes entranced with an older woman who gives him a pocket watch after the opening of his new play.
After visiting the hotel that has traces of the woman's history he finds himself immeshed in the theory of time travel and proceeds to successfully go back to a time at the hotel when she was a beautiful actress starring in a play on the grounds.
Love is never without it's obstacles and it is also never without it's share of sadness, hence this movie takes some turns, but in the end love wins.
Death is stronger than life... but love is stronger than death, is the theme here.
52 Must see for native Michiganders
Being that I grew up in Michigan when this movie was made you would have thought that I had watched it long before 2003! In my own defense I must say that I was only 6 years old when it came out so a love story did not interest me. I finally caught this movie yesterday on cable and I am just sick that it took me so long to watch it! The acting done by Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves is superb. I never realized how beautiful Jane is or how handsome Christopher is. Now I can't wait to get the DVD so I can watch the extras. I was on Mackinaw Island 2 years ago but now I can't wait to get back!
53 Enjoyable if watched sparingly and with discretion
Yes, it is a chick flick. Most guys would rather have a root canal with no anesthetic than sit through a chick flick. Yes, the time-travel plot gimmick leaves the plot with gaping holes that would be appalling to any science fiction fan. Yes, the soundtrack can be enough to make you swear off Rachmaninoff for life. All this is true.
Strangely enough though, it is an enjoyable movie if used sparingly, like maybe once every two or three years. It is a lot like some sugary confection; very enjoyable in and of itself, but if you eat it at every meal day after day, nothing good can come from it.
Ladies, follow those instructions and you can probably get the man in your life to submit to the occasional viewing. Men, this movie will not kill you if approached with the proper caution. If you feel you are in danger of overdosing, just watch a "Lethal Weapon" movie and you should be rehabilitated.
54 Great movie, soundtrack even better
This is one of my favorite movies of all times - not just for the story, but the beautiful soundtrack, which I discovered before I ever watched the movie.
This movie grabbed me like few others ever have - although I do enjoy watching romance movies, this is one of the very few that I own.
Reeve and Seymour have amazing chemistry together. The story is very pure and sweet, unlike many movies today. However, there are some humorous scenes - like when Collier is practicing what he'll say to Elise. It seems funny that a modern man would have such a difficult time approaching a woman of a different era - but each of us can probably relate to that nervousness!
Seymour has a wonderful soliloquy that always captures my heart, where she speaks of her love. Her character is an inspiration - she is strong enough to do her will and not be manipulated and pushed by others (her manager).
The movie is timeless - the music gorgeous. Definitely worth the time.
55 Get a Life!
This has to be one of the all-time sappiest movies ever made! If the royalties help out Christopher Reeve, great -- otherwise...it's a waste of time! Does romance mean total fantasy? These folks need to get a life! A real one!
56 Christopher Reeve's greatest movie
I've been watching this movie for 20 years, ever since it was on cable television....we missed it in theaters, as did most everyone else, but I do not think it possible for me to ever tire of this wonderful movie. EVERYTHING about this movie is perfect. It's a wonderful romantic fairy tale. I always cry at the end, even though I've seen it at least a hundred times. Definitely one of the most beautiful romances ever filmed. I would give it a million stars if I could. I even know men who count this as among their favorites.
57 A Must See
I actually bought this video when it cost [$$$]...that is how much I loved it. I think it is Christoper's best performance. But you have to watch...the facial expresions...the small details. There is so much you could miss. And Jane, she is so beautiful. This is a movie you have to give 100% attention to. I have loved it for 20+ years.
58 Time travel without the machine
Due to an extraordinary event a person longing for an earlier time (1912) is introduced to a method that will accomplish this. There he finds love. Will he stay or is there more in store for him? The answer lies "Somewhere in Time."
The story is based on a novel by Richard Matheson with a score by John Barry.
For those that may forget the details of this movie they will not forget Variation 18 of Sergei Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.
It is well conceived and paced for the content. The viewing audience is polarized as to whether this is the type of film they would watch, but all agree in the quality of this one. I personally think it is a keeper.
59 Time not binding.
The time travel explanation of "willing" yourself to a different time period is very fascinating. Jane Seymour is as beautiful as ever. Christopher Reeves is very good as well. Sure, it's a love story but it's a different twist on this genre. It's simply not my type of movie.
60 SOMEWHERE IN TIME.....
Although I did not purchase this dvd from AMAZON.com, I would like to put my 2 cents worth in..I love stories about people crossing time for love, as well as other reasons...Thought the movie was well acted, and loved the period look of the movie...However, the picture quality is not up to standard for what was once a pretty expensive dvd..The cover claims to be a remastered 20th anniversary edition, but still quite grainy...Oh, well...a good movie anyway.
61 A Romantic Classic
This touching romantic classic is well done. The acting by Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, and Christopher Plummer (as the interfering manager W.F. Robinson) is superb. The musical score by composer John Barry is wonderful and also includes Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody. It has often been the musical choice of figure skaters for their skating programs and is actually where I first heard the music.
Richard Collier (Reeve) is a playwright who lives in Chicago in 1980. One day, out of the blue, he receives the gift of a watch from an elderly woman who says, "Come back to me". He becomes haunted by this experience and becomes attracted to a picture in the hotel of a famous actress, Elise McKenna (Seymour). Through research he realizes that she is the same woman who gave him the watch and also that she died on the same day. He then begins his struggle, through hypnosis, to make it back to 1912 to renew his acquaintance with Elise.
The movie is slow paced, but has some very touching moments. I love the scene of their first meeting when Elise says, "Is it you?" It contains a minimal amount of swearing (religious in nature)and also the ending love scene, although tastefully done, may cause it to be inappropriate for children under 12. I personally prefer the Hallmark movie, The Love Letter, which has a similar theme but is more appropriate for all ages.
It is not surprising that this movie has become a cult classic, with fans meeting every October at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, where the story takes place and was filmed. It was also filmed in Chicago.
The special edition also includes an interesting featurette from 2000 about the making of the film and interviews with the actors. Christopher Reeve shares an experience from his own life that is very similar to what happens to his character in the film. It must be noted that this featurette on the video is an edited version of the one on the DVD which is at least 15 min. longer.
62 Somewhere In Time
I remember when somebody suggested to me that I watch the movie Somwhere In Time. It was the first year it was available on Cable TV (1980 or 1981). At that time I was a year or two from graduating high school, so sitting in front of the television to watch a "love story" really didn't appeal to me, but after being egged on a couple of times, I gave in and saw Somewhere In Time. I wish I could remember who recommended it because I'd like to give that person a great big "thank you!" I have never watched, before Somewhere In Time came out or after, a more enchanting and romantic love story. It changed my whole perception of what love was really all about. The story is breathtaking in showing what people will do in the name of love. Compared to some other people, when I watch a movie, I'm not nitpicking it to death to see if, for instance, time travel is really plausible, or the characters are well-rounded, or there's mistakes in the sets or dialogue. I'm viewing the movie as a whole, and Somewhere In Time, as a whole, fits the bill to a T. Watching the movie and hearing the music (John Barry and Rachmaninoff) just lets your mind and body melt away into something wonderful - you just feel so at ease knowing that the time and money you spent on it was well worth it. I'd prescribe Somewhere In Time to anybody who wishes to enjoy a movie that stands on its own two feet. It doesn't need graphic violence, foul language, sex and/or nudity, or even million dollar special effects to get its point across. If you're looking for those things, rent or purchase another movie. Somewhere In Time may not have won any Oscars, but don't let that keep you from appreciating a very fine piece of storytelling and moviemaking. If you haven't seen Somewhere In Time yet, it's never too late to start. I've seen it many, many times and I never get tired of the movie. That, my friends, is the mark of a great film.
63 Lackluster Love Story
With Christopher Reeves fresh off the heels of the popular "Superman", and a fiery Jane Seymore with 30+ movies to her credit - having just completed the films "The Four Feathers", "Battlestar Galactica" and a few years earlier having had her head ripped off by Micheal Sarizan in the made-for-TV movie "Frankenstein - The True Story"... this movie had SUCCESS written all over it. It's a love story geared towards the ladies... so don't expect any bombs going off, people being riddled with bullets, neat car chases, or cunning detective work (outside of Reeves rounding up clues and info on the actress of old in the hotel's Hall of History)... this is a fantasy - time machine - of a love story. Since I'm not a huge fan of Reeves to begin with, his so-so acting abilities seemed canned and forced to win the affections of Seymore. While I give the costumes an "A+" (even tho Reeves is in the same 1900 circa suit for the entire movie), the acting is just too dry. While Seymore went on to bigger and (maybe?) better things with Dr. Quinn, Jack The Ripper, the Swiss Family Robinson, and guest appearances on Murphy Brown... there's no denying her beauty. OK, so you're a man and you're bored with the movie... look for the stars-to-be somewhere in the background - like William H. Macy (Fargo), George Wendt (Norm!) and old man Bill Erwin ("Desert Heat" and "Seinfeld").
64 Most Romantic Love Story Ever Made
SOMEWHERE IN TIME is the most Romantic Love Story ever made. It actually makes you feel like you are transformed back in time along with Richard (Christopher Reeves) and Ellis (Jane Semour)Being able to actually go to Mackinac Island Michigan and stay at The Grand Hotel where the movie was filmed is a wonderful experience to make the film seem even more real. The whole movie except the scenes in Chicago were filmed right on Mackinac Island. They now have a monument where Richard & Ellis first met. The island is so Romantic and a wonderful place to feel like you are really SOMEWHERE IN TIME. No cars are allowed on the island. Buy the movie and enjoy a Romantic Evening watching this movie then go to The Grand Hotel and enjoy it for yourself.
65 This is one of my favorite movies
I saw it allot when I was growing up, and all I can say is, if you haven't seen it yet, you have got to! I'd give it 20+ stars if I could!
66 somewhere in time has a permanent place in my heart
i discovered this movie as a junior in highschool in 1984. from the very first moment i saw it, it has been #1 on my list of favorites. the impact of a love so very strong, that it transcends time, is a love that most of us (women) dream of. guys (including male reviewers) call it gushy, and corny. that's to be understood, for no man understands whats truely in a womans heart. why? because they dont want to deal with the stuff that's close to us, that they lable "corny and gushy". is it any wonder men will never understand. guy's, if you want a completely romantic evening with your lady love, get this one and watch it with her. then, run out and buy her the soundtrack for a present. and keep plenty of hankies at the ready. ********** I give it 10 stars!
67 Classic Romance
Perhapes one of my most favorite movies.Only complaint is that *ending*.However I love the cast in this movie.The background music and the costumes.So wonderful!
68 Good movie with a twist.
This is a love story with a scientifical twist. I did not expect to like this movie but I did. Notice that the time travel relation is a loophole. The old lady tells him to go back to her so he travel back in time and do so but in order for that to happen he must been there previously otherwise she would never met him, in other words there is no beginning nor end to the timeloop, also the watch that she gives him was given to her by him which in turn was given to him by her and so on going in circles forever. Overall: VERY GOOD
69 Wonderful Escape Fantasy Romance!
A delightful mix of historical fiction, romance, and time travel. This bittersweet story still haunts twenty years later.
70 A Romantic Classic of our Time
Released: 1980
Running Time: 114 minutes
Director: Jeannot Szwarc
Main Characters: Christopher Reeve ..... Richard Collier
Jane Seymour ..... Elise McKenna
Christopher Plummer .....William Fawcett Robinson
Color: Technicolor
Sound Mix: Mono (Westrex Recording System)
Genre: Drama / Mystery / Romance / Fantasy
The story is based on a novel by Richard Matheson. The story entails a romantic and intimate relationship between a young Christopher Reeves, (Richard Collier) and Jane Seymour (Elise McKenna).
The story begins with the opening of Richard Collier's first play during his college years. At the end of the play an aging woman approaches him and gives him an old-fashioned pocket watch and says, "Come back to me," before leaving. The story moves forward eight years at which time Collier is a successful playwright. After he becomes frustrated because he can no longer concentrate on his work, he leaves his office and decides to check into the Grand Hotel. While he is a guest at the Grand Hotel a photo of the beautiful Elise McKenna who had stayed in the hotel in 1912 mesmerizes him. He cannot get the photo out of his mind and tries to find out as much about her as he can. He discovers she is the woman that gave him the watch eight years earlier. He uses hypnosis and convinces himself to travel back in time to 1912 where he meets Elise McKenna, the woman in the picture from the Grand Hotel. Elise's possessive manager, William Robinson, is determined to put an end to their relationship. Her manager is very possessive of her and does not want Richard to be with her. After Elise's manager has a scuffle to deter Richard from seeing Elise, the manager loses the power he had over her. Richard and Elise spend an intimate afternoon together which ends suddenly when Elise tells Richard she is going to buy him a new suit. Richard proceeds to explain to Elise all the advantages of the suite he has, pointing out all the pockets and how handy they are for his coins, at which time he pulls a shiny penny from the future. Since the penny was not of that era, it caused Richard to go back to the future and he loses Elise. Richard tried hypnosis again to try and get back to Elise, but it fails. Richard is heart-broken and spends the next several days in his hotel room alone without any food or sleep. Eventually he dies and in the final scene Richard is shown with Elise grasping hands in the clouds.
This film was very slow moving. It is a romantic story, but the romance drags until the end of the film.
It seemed like it took forever for this film to finally end.
I had a hard time keeping my eyes open while viewing this film.
71 One of the most romantic love stories ever!!!
This movie is, by far, one of the most romantic movies ever made! If you want a good movie to cuddle up with your sweetheart with... this is it!
Deep, honest acting... Reeve is great in this.
This is a movie that my mother introduced to me as a young boy. The love story of all love stories. I'm a guy, and truly fell in love with this movie.
72 Don't forget the extras on this DVD!
I'd just like to point out how EXCELLENT the documentary and director comments are on this DVD. A huge amount of great information with all the stars from Christopher Reeve in his wheelchair to Jane Seymore to all the cast members, and I do mean ALL of them. Really satisfying, it has completed by SIT experience and I recommend any and all who have not gotten the 20th anniversary version of this DVD to get it. VERY MUCH worth the extra green for ths improed version. Long live Somewhere in Time!
73 Belive In Love
A beautiful story....Never, ever give up. The past is the future, and holds hope.
74 ?Richard! Richard!?
Oh the agonizing screams of Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour) as Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve) is torn forward to his own time. I'm utterly captivated by this movie. Like Richard Collier, I once saw a photograph of a Civil War soldier that enthralled me as much as Elise McKenna's did him. Unlike Richard, I had no details with which to search for my past love. Somewhere In Time will make your heart leap like it did when you found first love, weep with the sadness of lost love and thrill with the joy of rediscovery!
75 Very best love story ever!
I have never before been so touched by a movie! I even used some of the lines from the movie for my wedding vows. This is my husband's favorite movie of all time. He shared it with me the first time we met, at the end of the movie we were both in tears and still are every time we watch it. 'Somewhere in Time' has a very special meaning in the Dueben house.
76 The Best Romance of All Time
I am usually one who likes tear jerkers, but this movie was the exception. It is a philosophical romance. Was he dreaming or was it real? Although corny at times, this is one of the best movies for Seymore and Reeves. The music is wonderful,the scenery was magnificant and the costumes and makeup were fabulous. I will treasure this movie for many more years to come.
77 The most splendid movie in the history
yes,it abosolutely is.no one will doubt about it!i advised everyone to watch it.and u will find a new world that u have never imagine!
78 SOMEWHERE IN TIME
Simply, I love it. It is my favorite lovers movie there I ever see in my entired live.
79 One of the Greatest Love Stories Ever
Christopher Reeve gives one of his best and most heartfelt performances in SOMEWHERE IN TIME. Starting in 1980 he attempts to return to 1912 to revisit (unknown to him) his true love played by Jane Seymour. Jeannot Szwarc directed the film with an effective screenplay by Richard Matheson (of Twilight Zone fame). This movie is high on emotion in great part due to John Barry's unforgettable score. Once you see this film you will never forget it.
80 Somewhere in Time
My husband and I fell in love with this movie when it first came out. We've watched it so many times that we knew we had to go on the "Somewhere in Time" weekend that is held at the end of each October on Mackinac Island at the Grand Hotel. It is one of the most romantic weekends conceiveable. We met most of the cast, director and producers. We highly recommend this movie followed by a weekend at the Grand Hotel for a real treat
81 Lovey-dovey, mushy stuff, plus time travel travel!
I first saw it on TV. at age 5. It was one of those late night movies they show on the weekends. I had the chicken pox which allowed me the privilege to stay up late. At first, I had no interest in the movie because I was (and still is) an action/adventure type movie go'er. Yet, the idea of time travel had its appeal and drew me in. (Also due to the fact, that I couldn't reach the remote control!) So, I watched the movie and I actually enjoyed it. (Although, the ending was a bit tragic.) Thus, "Somewhere in Time" became on of my favorite mushy, lovey-dovey, chick-flicks!
The plot is rather simple(heh heh). A guy meets a mysterious old lady in the present (well during the 1970's). She gives the guy something and tells him to "Come back to her!" The guy is like what the '----' who is this chick (paraphrasing here) and like whatever!. Some years later, the guy gets dumped (I think?) and is suffering from play writer's block. So, the man goes to a nice hotel that was there since the early 1900's for inspiration for his play. The hotel--incidentally--has a history museum and the guy decides look around. Then low and behold, the dude sees a picture of this bodacious babe. He finds out that the chick in the pic was non-other than the mysterious old lady that he met years ago! Like totally weird! The guy gets totally obsessed with the bodacious babe in the picture and tries to find out anything and everything about her. This does not help cease his 'thing' for this girl and he wants to be with her. Question is, how? She's long gone and in the past while he is stuck in the 80's. Hmmm, well time travel seems like a good (but whacked) idea! So, our love sick playwright opposes all the laws of classical physics--without a Dalorian (sp?? Back to the Future)and his "Superman" powers (the 'reverse the earth's rotation thingy')--in order to be with the love of his life! The rest of the story is pretty much history. I don't want to give too much away (probably did)to those who have not watch the movie!
Yeah, story is a bit corny (and vague) at times, but it has its 'oh that was so romantic' parts in it that would sweep anyone off his/her feet. The actors and actresses in this movie did a good job in their roles. Christopher Reeves was charming and fit his character well. Also, Jane Seymore made and excellent Elise. The costumes that were used were pretty cool (especially Elise's awesome dresses). Plus, for all those Rachmaninof fans out there (like I am), you'll love the score. Hey, Rachmaninof and romance go together and this is a romance flick. So, if you watched the movie and liked it, then kudos for you! Might as well get the movie. Might as well get it on DVD. I did! Also, if you didn't see this movie, then go see it. However, beware of the ending. It is sad. Just as sad as the "City of Angels" chick, that got hit by a truck after getting it on with the cute angel dude! (What an idiot! Sorry that movie just ticks me off! Maybe, I should review it!) Then, after you've seen the movie, write a review for it on Amazon.com. Just like what I'm doing, at 2:02 in the morning, supposedly studying for finals!
82 Could have been a great one
I say this because I think it could have been great but the plot holes are just too large and is it necessary to have Reeves in every frame of the movie? We get very little perspective on Janes character.
The plot holes are quite large and I won't even stir up the "well when was the first time he went back for her to have remembered him?", paradox.
Ok, why is it after he's tied-up and realises she has left does he fall apart? Doesn't he realise he can just go find her in the next city? I mean he HAS gone through time for 'crise sakes! Hopping a train MAY be easier! Why is it that Janes manager simply has Reeves "tied-up" to be begin with? Doesn't he realise that when Reeves is untied he will simply come looking for Jane? And the whole "You are going to marry me aren't you?", line by Jane at the end of the movie is just nausiatingly unrealistic. Life just doesn't work this way... I'm sorry but not even in the movies.
These and many other silly things that just don't add up can be found. And they hit us over the head with "Arthur" and his red ball too. Ok, we get it! Thats the old man from the future! Arthur this and Arthur that, Arthur, Arthur, Arthur!
I don't have the new 20th Ann. addition, and all I can say is I hope the transfer is better than the early one on dvd, the picture is quite grainy... so much so that it will make you wonder whether your dvd player is on the fritz!
After all is said and done, I like the "idea" generated here. I do like Jane and her managers performance... I like the soundtrack... I like the sets... but honestly the chemistry was flat, and thats the most important part of it all.
Ok, Arthur?
83 Great directing and acting!
Perhaps the lead reviewer thinks this is a silly picture, but then most pictures would be silly by his views on things. This is a sort of SciFi picture, a time travel picture, or perhaps the lead character was just dreaming, who knows? Very entertaining and well acted, fine background scenes. A Can't miss picture.
84 Somewhere In Time Is Timeless
Having owned the VHS version of this movie, and having a wonderful wife that searched for the DVD version in every video store we frequented, I was compelled to order her the DVD. I learned a long time ago that pleasing my wife makes life great. Insofar as the movie is concerned: The critics bombed it; the public loved it. They still do. Of the many romantic fantasies on screen, this movie stands alone. It is romantic from beginning to end and, though a bit loose at times, the story fascinates and keeps one's attention. Even for a guy married 20 years, romance is still a nice thing. Seeing my wife enjoy this movie slightly more than I is even nicer. DVD quality is superior over the VHS version. Take a chance and buy the DVD. I think that you will watch it more than once and enjoy it with each viewing. And, not to be rude, I must say that the actors
are fascinating and very convincing. Darn those critics, anyway!
85 Beautiful Film
This movie is ten times better than Titanic. I loved the scene where Jane Seymour's character breaks dialogue in her play performance and confesses her love for Christopher Reeve's character..........fascinating!
86 Forever My Love
I'm not exactly a lover of period pieces, but as this movie went on it started to feel as though it was pulling me inside making me a part of it. Laughing when they laughed, crying when they cried. I didn't see the very beginning so the ending caught me off guard. Had I seen it from the start I would have figured it out. I believe that's what made it so enjoyable.
87 Great Movie, Great extras
I think enough has been said about the movie Somewhere in Time. You either love it or you hate it. But if you are trying to decide whether to get it on DVD, I can tell you YES emphatically.
The documentary into the making of the film runs about an hour, not the usual 10-minute slapped-together documentary found on DVDs. You learn how certain shots were set up, including the famous scene where Christopher Reeve walks past a window, a person inside pulls down a black shade, and in the reflection, you (and Reeve's character) see Elise (Jane Seymour) for the first time. Great and interesting addition to the film.
88 I keep coming back to this movie.
Somewhere in Time is one of those movies that, while primarily set in 1912, is timeless in it's appeal. I have watched this movie innumerable times. It is just one of those magic tales that caught me and has stayed with me ever since.
The plot centers on an elderly woman coming to Christopher Reeves's post-production party of a play he has written and giving him a watch and saying 'come back to me'. Who is she, what does she mean? From there, Reeve is off on an adventure that will change his life.
In the need of a break from writer's block and a failed relation, Reeve goes to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island for a night. He sees a picture of an actress of 1912 and is arrested by her and turns to researching her, plowing through the library searching for information. He even finds the woman who was her companion in her final days and learns that there is more to the woman than present day information reveals. A book about traveling through time comes into the mix and Reeve is caught up in the possibility that it presents about going back in time.
After more reserach, false starts and frustration, Reeve finally finds himself in 1912 on Mackinac Island and the adventure really starts.
The principle actors are excellently casted, Plummer, Reeve and Seymour, but the smaller roles and extras just make the movie that much more entertaining. One charecter, Arthur appears in both the present as a post social security age hotel worker and also as a 5 year old with a tendency to bounce his ball in the hotel lobby in 1912. It is a detail like this that makes the movie appealing.
The musical score is a tremendous compliment to the film. Without this score, it might never have made the impact it has over the years.
The book from which this movie is adapted is set at the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego, but I think the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is better. It is a little misleading since Reeve uses a car to get to the hotel and I recall reading that there are only two vehicles, emergency vehicles, on the island. But that minor point is of no weight to the movie because once you get there, you don't want to leave. I've been to the Hotel Del and just think the setting in the Grand is more in keeping with the film.
The whole setting, from Reeves bumpy introduction to the world of 1912 through his abrupt departure, is captivating. His first encounter with a cut throat razor is quite impressive, not to mention Seymour's response to his appearing with a face plastered in toiler paper to stop the blood loss. The constant surveilance from Plummer, of the two, gives a sinister aspect to the film. I'm not sure if I dislike Plummer's charecter as a controlling, manipulative manager or like him as a father-figure interested in making sure his daughter isn't hurt. Each time I see the film, I'm reevaluating Plummer's charecter. Right now, I rather like him, but that may change.
The catastrophe which befalls Reeve and Seymour is at once abrupt and almost inevitable. No plan is fool proof and a penny is a small item to affect the lives of all involved, but it does.
In all, I found this a film of tremendous appeal. I've seen it countless times and need to get a new tape as the one now is starting to show signs of overuse. I recommend this to anyone with an interest in "what if ..." films. I think part of this film's appeal is that it falls into many categories, drama, romance and science fiction, so it has broad based appeal. This is a fine film, well worth watching and rewatching because you always see something you missed before.
89 A story of love that even time could not forget !
This movie is one of the greatest movies of all time. When I was little I would run into our house and hear the great music this movie entailes not paying attention. My mother could listen to it for hours. Now that I am an adult, and my mother is in another place, or I am sad, or just want to meditate and be alone, I put on this c.d. and fall into a world that is no longer their for our eyes but can be found in our hearts. When this music is playing ( and it's not the kind of music with words that you say, but with the words your imagination can give you) my roomates know not to even think to knock on the door. It gives me hope in love and that true love really exixsts. And if it doesn't at least I can watch it happen with my eyes and feel it with my heart when watching this movie. Thank you I have been looking for this movie for a very long time.
Thanks
Jenni
90 A story of love that even time could not forget !
This movie is one of the greatest movies of all time. When I was little I would run into our house and hear the great music this movie entailes not paying attention. My mother could listen to it for hours. Now that I am an adult, and my mother is in another place, or I am sad, or just want to meditate and be alone, I put on this c.d. and fall into a world that is no longer their for our eyes but can be found in our hearts. When this music is playing ( and it's not the kind of music with words that you say, but with the words your imagination can give you) my roomates know not to even think to knock on the door. It gives me hope in love and that true love really exixsts. And if it doesn't at least I can watch it happen with my eyes and feel it with my heart when watching this movie. Thank you I have been looking for this movie for a very long time.
Thanks
Jenni
91 One of my Top 10 Movies of all Time
This is a wonderful movie - no matter how many times I watch this I am still so involved in the characters and the storyline and I always cry ! The music is unforgetable and it temporarily satisfies the hopeless romantic in me. Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve are perfect in their parts and both the time period that it is set in and the place that this is filmed make you long to be there.
I would HIGHLY recommend this film.
92 My all time favorite movie of all time!!!
THis is my favorite movie! I have the movie poster, vcr tape, movie book and the famous picture of Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves. I always felt that the man who could sit all the way thru this movie with me would be the one for me! I have watched it 7 times. I also have the sountrack on tape! You must buy this movie you will not regret it! This is not just a chick movie guys!!
93 One of, if not THE most moving film of all time.
If you have never seen this film, it is definitely a "must see." Don't believe the nay-sayers, this is a beautiful movie. Unfortunately, there are those who either don't see the beauty of this film, or simply miss its message all together. If you do any research on the history of this film, you will find yourself quite amazed. No, it didn't do well at the box office, but Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour could not promote it due to the actors' strike that was going on at the time. The most amazing aspect of the movie is its staying power in the hearts of viewers for over 20 years now. And I can't think of many other film scores nearly as romantic and heartfelt as John Barry's work here.
My advice is this. Watch this movie at home in the dark, with no distractions and allow yourself to be taken in. Open your mind, and try to avoid critique of camera angles, acting technique, etc. and let your heart grip the story. For some very fortunate souls, the magic will then begin to take place.
94 It's a great movie, but the DVD sucks!
I love the movie, but I was really disappointed in the DVD version. The quality just was awful. The reason that people buy DVD's is for the improved video and audio quality. The bad thing about the DVD is that the audio is FREAKIN' 2.0 MONO!!!! It sounds like it's being played in a bucket.
I love the film, and the soundtrack, but 2.0 MONO???? It's not even in STEREO, let alone Dolby Pro logic surround. All DVD's tend to have at least 5.1 Dolby Digital - but Freakin' 2.0 MONO?
I'm disappointed in the DVD, I never thought that a studio would have the guts to release something on DVD with such horrible sound. What are they trying to pass off on us?
If they ever make a release that is AT LEAST 2.0 STEREO then I'm going to ask for a free exchange for them trying to pass of this MONO garbage on me.
95 Plot is a little off-the-wall, but sweet, romantic movie
Chris and Jane are superb in every way. The plot is a little off-the-wall, but just too cute...a modern-day man projects himself several decades into the past, where he meets, romances and falls deeply in love with an actress. By some event he is sent back to his own time. What will become of his love in the past? Will he ever find her Somewhere in Time? Watch the movie and find out. I highly recommend...it will appeal to your inner 'Marshmallow' self.
96 Somewhere in Time-A Classic
This movie is the most romantic and at the same sad movie I have ever seen. I own 7 copies because I want to make sure that I always have a copy. I don't care how many times I see this movie, I enjoy it. I think the saddest part is the fact that Christopher Reeves is such a handsome young man and to think about his sad circumstances now with the terrible accident he had makes you really watch and count your blessings for the health you have now...Jane Seymour is beautiful and so touching in this movie. You want so badly to have them reunite in the past. But the ending with them together at last makes it all worth while........Ah true everlasting love.
97 Challenges You to Pay Attention
There is more to "Time" than I could absorb in one watching. The love story is simple enough, but the many-sided nuances of the story are hidden in almost every corner of the movie, and they don't reveal themselves to lazy or superficial examination. Trying to burden oneself with the minutia of time-travel theory simply complicates the story for the first viewing, or two. However, the nuances of the two lover's interplay across time is important to the story from the very beginning, as I found out.
I missed many of the facets of the story the first time through and I can see why so many have an almost a cultist fascination with "Time." A captivating movie that, like a good book, challenges you to pay attention and then rewards you with the type of ending that really makes you wish there was a sequel, or two, waiting in the wings.
98 Don't trip over the small stuff...
After reading several reviews for "Somewhere in Time", the one issue that jumps out at me as causing confussion amoung viewers is the matter concerning "time travel". As any fan of Sci-Fi knows, time travel is a very risky venture at best. Such events as meeting yourself, accidently causing the death of a relative, and altering the time-stream (as depicted in the original STAR TREK episode "City on the Edge of Forever") are just a few of the many pitfalls encountered. The sequence of time is also a major consideration. To quote perhaps the most famous time traveler of all (Dr. Who, of course!), "Have I been here before... or am I yet to come?". In this movie, none of this really applies. For in "Somewhere in Time", time travel... in the "classic" sense... is not the main event. This is NOT sci-fi, but a LOVE story that TRANSENDS time! Yes,there is one time "loop" here... starting when the "old" Elise gives Richard the watch. But the sequence of events should be taken just as presented in the movie, from both characters points of view. This is why Richard has no prior recollection of past events, even though the "old" Elise knows all. Only several years later, at the Grand Hotel, does he start to sence an affinity to the portrait of the "young" Elise, which causes him to realize that the old woman with the watch and the young woman in the portrait are one and the same. Thus begins his "quest" of love. In the final scene, he does what "Sam" does in the movie "Ghost"... reuniting with loved ones that have preceded him to "the other side". It's as simple as that, and this is a great way to prevent repeating (that dreaded time-loop thingy)any events of the past. So don't try to over-think this flick... snuggle up with that "special someone", keep plenty of tissues on hand... and enjoy one of the GREAT movies of out times!
99 Ever lasting love story movie
It has been 21 years and still refreshing. I saw it in the big screen cinema that time, and loved this movie immediately. I just watched its VHS version, and the feeling is still so great for this movie. Although I have never thought a picture of the person in the past can be so impressive and attractive for someone to attempt traveling back in time to be with the person. Until last November, I went to a grave to pay salute to a Hong Kong movie classic star, Betty Loh Tih, who died in the age of 30 during the 60s. Her stunning classic beauty picture just like in this movie attracted me so greatly, and I finally convinced that what was made in that movie is so realistic. A great photography can make one falling in love with the person in the past. This movie is made to be the classic of its time, when 80s the romance story seldom hit the line, it was a stand out of its kind. Beautifully casted, scenes, music and the entire mode of the movie just made everything looked so romantic. I was not a Christopher Reeve or Jane Seymour fans before I watched this movie, but since I saw them and the made to believe in love looked, I started to like them ever since. It is a well deserved to collect a beautiful piece of a movie, than can stand through time. It is an ever lasting love story!
100 Deeply moving, but something's missing. . .
This movie is about true love that transcends time. Richard Collier (Reeve) is a playwright from the late 1970s who is approached by a strange old woman. Lovingly and reverently, she places a gold pocketwatch into Richard's hand and utters four cryptic words: "Come back to me," before she disappears into the shadows.
Eight years after that strange meeting, Richard drives to a luxurious old hotel in the countryside. There, he sees a picture of the lovely young Elise McKenna (Seymour), a talented actress who reached her prime around 1910 and 1912. In a flash of recognition, Richard realizes that this is the same woman, now deceased, who gave him the gold watch eight years ago. Spurred by love and obsession, Richard struggles to conquer mind-induced time travel to reach Elise back in 1912, thereby recapturing the love that has eluded him, yet has been powerful enough to transcend decades.
The plotline is definitely beautiful and mesmerizing to envision, yet the movie itself was surprisingly disappointing. However, there were some definite positive points of the film. The lush scenery of the New England coast and the beautiful Grand Hotel are great testaments to the cinematography of early 80s movies. Reeve's character, Richard, is handsome and likeable because of his awkward yet dashing personality. The chemistry between Richard and Elise is amazing. Each look they cast upon each other sets the sparks flying, and their love for one another is so powerful that it infused every moment of the movie.
However, despite the beauty of the film, the plotline is severely lacking. The story has numerous holes in it that do not explain how the elderly Elise had the watch in the first place, or how Richard knew her in the past and then magically appeared in the 1970s with no recollection of her. Plus, the conclusion of the film is dismaying and heartbreaking. When I saw what happened to Richard, I felt like the whole ordeal he went through to reach Elise in the past was for nothing. It is difficult to watch a human being break down and waste away into nothing.
I agree with other reviews that if you watch this movie with an open mind, oblivious to the constraints of epochs and rationality, but with the hope of romantic enlightenment in mind, then you would be enraptured by this movie. Unfortunately, I cannot stand a movie that does not have a solid conclusion, or at least a conclusion where you can figure out what happened and mentally tie up loose ends. The ending of this movie left me completely lost. And it is definitely debatable whether or not this movie had a happy ending.
And another thing to keep in mind: Although I've never read it, this movie was based on a novel called BID TIME RETURN by Richard Matheson. Therefore, you can be almost certain that there is a crucial element in the book that the movie doesn't cover that would fill the holes in the plot. That is why I am being generous with 3 stars. Otherwise, I'd just give it 2.
