Predictable and yet multi-layered

Rating: 9/10 (1 September 2019)

I like reading books, but a cliche love story is not my cup of tea. However, based on the number of stars I give for this film, it's clear that I am willing to give an exception. I like the idea about how a love story between two bibliophiles can emerge from the letters they exchanged between them and their love for books. First, you will have guessed the ending anyway after five minutes entering the film, who would end up with whom. The film practically has all the cliches you know about a film involving a romantic love story. This includes the choice she makes at the end, which fails to follow the pragmatic logic that I try to comprehend. But, who cares? Because I enjoy the entire film thoroughly due to its multi-layered narrative and gorgeously shot scenes. The journey to unravel the whole story itself was executed admirably. Secondly, the film is all about love, although not just about romantic love, if I am allowed to make a category. It's also about family and friendship. The chemistry amongst the characters is built-up supremely. It also provides us with a glimpse of the sorrowful after-effect of the war, because war does not end simply when both sides choose to drop the guns. In conclusion, the ending is very predictable, but story-telling wise it's amazing. Now, I am planning my next trip to Guernsey. I know a lot of the scenes were not shot in Guernsey, but I am still intrigued.