Damned by excessive praise

Rating: Null/10 (15 January 2004)

If I had seen this film knowing nothing about it, it might have made a better impression on me. But with the world's critics having gone into such swooning raptures over it, the actual experience cannot but disappoint. It's just a mildly diverting, well-played, low-key little film, that doesn't outstay its welcome. The most baffling reviews are those which claim it's 'hysterically funny': it simply isn't, maybe raising just the odd smile.
Anyone in the UK who saw the final episodes of 'The Office' over Christmas will find the ending of this film familiar, and I'd be surprised if many people find this version more rewarding or moving.