another well crafted effort by Woody Allen

Rating: 8/10 (21 January 2007)

Match Point,written and directed by Woody Allen,is a romantic drama set in London.Jonathon Rys Meyers plays Chris Wilton,a former pro tennis player who tales a job as a tennis instructor at a an upper class club in London.he quickly forms a friendship with Tom Hewitt(Matthew Goode)one of his students,who introduces him to his upper crust family,including his sister Chloe.(Emily Mortimer)Chris and Chloe soon begin a romance.However,Chris becomes smitten with Tom's fiancé,Nola Rice(Scarlet Johansson).Chris and Nola have a brief affair.Nola moves away and Chris does not see her for a year.However,in a chance meeting,he runs into her again and they begin a prolonged,torrid affair.Chris and Chloe have Married by this time,and Chris has risen quickly in the ranks of his father in law's(Brian Cox)company.eventually the time comes when Chris must decide between his wife,Chloe and his mistress Nola.remaining with Chloe assures Chris of the continued extravagant lifestyle he has become accustomed to,while leaving Chloe for Nola would mean losing all the wealth and privilege he has achieved.More complication arise as something unexpected occurs,forcing Chris to make a surprising and life altering decision.this movie is well written,with very good dialogue and interesting characters and dilemmas.Tom Hewitt plays Chris Wilton as charming,suave,and self confident. His seduction of Nola comes across as real and authentic.Nola,played by Scarlett Johansson is woman who knows the effect she has on men and is more than eager to play the game.However,she lacks self confidence as an aspiring actress and is emotionally vulnerable.Johansson is very credible playing a character more mature than her age would suggest.Emily Mortimer,as Chloe,gives a wonderfully understated performance as the neglected wife who has self confidence issues of her own.as the film moves toward its concluding stages,Chris make his decision,leading to a startling and unexpected conclusion.this movie is very well executed and very entertaining,as well thought provoking.a strong 8/10