The movie takes place over the course of just one day and night (Oct. 30, 1962) at the height of the Cuban missile crisis.

George Falconer (Colin Firth from “Mamma Mia,” “Love Actually” and “Bridget Jones’s Diary”) is a handsome, middle-aged English literature professor living in Los Angeles. His stream-of-consciousness narrative carries the viewer through his mundane daily routine.

He is struggling to find meaning in life while still grieving the death, a few months earlier, of his longtime loving companion Jim (Matthew Goode from “Leap Year,” “Watchmen” and “Brideshead Revisited”). He appears to be putting his affairs in order with a view to committing suicide.

Ford uses his fashion design background to create a unique style of filmmaking. There is a flair and panache associated with every scene. Ford effectively utilizes vibrant colors, dapperly designed outfits and striking poses mirroring those found in a photographic studio. A melancholy classical music score is played throughout with long stretches devoid of dialogue.

The movie’s major theme is fear of growing old, being alone and an unknown future. The movie teaches us to appreciate the memories built from small moments and that human connections make life worthwhile.

The camera spends a long time on scenes where nothing happens. The focus is placed on the eyes and lips of the characters. The screen lights up whenever the senses are engaged or emotions are triggered.

References are made to George’s closeted homosexuality with lines like “you’re a little light in your loafers.”

The other characters in George’s life include fellow British expatriate friend, neighbor and one-time lover Charley (Julianne Moore from “The Hours” and “Far From Heaven”) and Kenny (Nicholas Hoult, “About a Boy”), a young student coming to terms with his own sexual identity.

Firth gives a smooth and self-assured performance. He is a shoo-in to be one of the five nominees in the best actor category at the upcoming Academy Awards. Moore lets it all hang out with an uninhibited performance. She feels sorry for herself and desperately tries to seduce George. The hair and makeup department deserve credit for her wild appearance.

The flirtatiously charming Hoult has matured and grown up from the child actor we remember. He shows off his acting chops, displaying natural ability and self-assured poise.

The movie is laced with humor. The funniest segment involves a sleeping bag when George wants to end it all without making a bloody mess.

This poignant and emotionally moving movie is perfectly paced at 99 minutes. It holds your interest and never wears out its welcome. It is this year’s gay love entry for Oscar consideration following in the footsteps of “Milk” and “Brokeback Mountain.” See it before anyone spills the beans on its twist ending.

Now playing exclusively for a limited engagement at the Glenwood Arts and the Tivoli in Westport.

Review By:
Keith Cohen "The Movie Guy"