Formulaic, but well executed

Rating: 5/10 (16 June 2004)

Nick Cassavetes' effort to bring Jan Sardi's adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' novel to the screen has James Garner and Gena Rowlands perform adequately in this southern version of the poor boy--rich girl--rich boy triangle. As Allie and Noah, the beautiful Rachel Adams and handsome Ryan Gosling do it justice. The cinematography is well done with two scenes involving birds that are outstanding, if a little over-the-top. I found the picture entertaining and wasn't disappointed by the performances. I was glad to see that Ms Adams can act as well as look gorgeous. Ms Rowlands accurate portrayal of the devastation of Alzheimer's disease is especially poignant with the recent death Ronald Reagan. Some of the pathos just misses and some of the comedy is predictable, but as a general rule it is enjoyable and never boring.