Return to Me

Peter McGinn

Okay, I will admit I can be a bit of an easy grader when it comes to romantic comedies, as long as they are witty with likable characters, don’t insult my intelligence and have suitable happy endings (I guess if they don’t end happily, they aren’t rom-coms). I saw this movie many years ago, but had forgotten just enough of it to keep it fresh for me. Like many movies, the plot relies on a huge coincidence or three. The story gets sappy and sentimental in places, is rather predictable and has too much religion to suit me, but that last thing may suit you just fine, praise be. It was co-written and directed by the actress Bonnie Hunt, who is a supporting character in the film. But there is a spark of chemistry between the two lead characters, the dialogue is smart and sharp, and the movie is rich with its supporting cast, such as Jim Belushi, Robert Loggia and Archie Bunker - I mean Carroll O’Connor. Plus I have liked Minnie Driver since Circle of Friends. Just keep in mind this isn’t Hitchcock or Frank Capra stuff and doesn’t try to be. Just let it flow over you