A feel-good movie that highlights the beauty of France as much as it does its stars, A Good Year provides a languid, gorgeous viewing experience. Director Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe--who first worked together on the Academy Award-winning Gladiator--are reunited in this romantic film, which is based on Peter Mayle's book A Year in Provence. Crowe plays Max, a workaholic London bonds trader who doesn't know the meaning of vacation. When his uncle dies, leaving him a picturesque estate in the south of France, Max views it as an opportunity to cash in the vinery and pocket the profits. The film is reminiscent of Diane Lane's Under the Tuscan Sun in the way the scenery plays as much of a role in the film as its characters. The lush village and streaming sunlight portray Provence as an idyllic, magical place. Even Max falls under its spell. While not a particularly likeable character, especially in the early part of the film, Max also isn't a bad guy. When he gets the chance to live life at a less manic pace than which he is used to, he finds that a good year isn't dependant on a financial windfall. Though Scott tries to drum up some suspense in the film (Is the beautiful visitor really Max's illegitimate cousin? Will Max fall in love with the feisty local woman he trades quips with?) nothing that happens comes as much of a surprise. Still, while the film doesn't fully utilize Crowe's range of skills, the actor is charming in his role and A Good Year provides a fine time in the cinemas. --Jae-Ha Kim
Extras from A Good Year
Russell Crowe and Co-Stars on Filming in Provence
A Good Year Virtual Vinyard
Beyond A Good Year
A Year in Provence
More from Director Ridley Scott
More from Russell Crowe
Stills from A Good Year
Product Description: A successful investment banker's plans for selling a newly inherited French vineyard become complicated when he begins falling in love with French woman. No Track Information Available Media Type: DVD Artist: CROWE/FINNEY Title: GOOD YEAR Street Release Date: 02/27/2007 Domestic Genre: COMEDY VIDEO
A good year I had read some of the terrible reviews this movie received, so I was somewhat surprised to enjoy A Good Year as much as I did. Russell Crowe manages to be quite charming when he's not throwing phones at bellboys, and he makes his character if not exactly likeable, which would have been impossible, then at least compelling. Marion Cotillard, Abbie Cornish and the great Albert Finney make a good supporting cast.
A joy to watch This movie is all about live and making the right decisions. On top of that you have great cultural humor between the French and the British. Ridley Scott knows his stuff. He created a classic with Alien and another classic with this one. I watched it already too many times, but enjoy it again and again.
Great Movie I get bored easily with movies. But this has become one of my all times favorites. I've probably watched it now 10 times.
Sneaks up on you good. I love everything about this movie. It's fun to watch a self-centered, city man gradually become the caring person he had shut off inside. Great characters, beautiful place, funny and moving film!
Great flick This movie is fantastic. It is smart and funny. I have watched it at least 10 times and will watch again.
Anything Goes Trivia
Megaton Man
Tony's Online Tips
Trevor
