Amazing Movie!

Rating: 10/10 (28 November 2011)

Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, Nick Cassavates' 2004 The Notebook is the classic story of two teenagers of different classes who fall in love one summer. Allie is the typical southern city-girl, while Noah is a hard-working country boy. As the summer comes to an end, as does their romance. Allie has to go to school in New York, while Noah has to stay home and work. They try to keep their romance alive by writing letters, but are stopped by the mother, who hides all of Noah's letters to Allie. But at last, they find a way back to each other and eventually die old together.
The story may be seen as a cliché to some, but it did succeed very well in delivering its message, true loves conquers all. This statement has much truth to it, and has been told in numerous films in so many ways. But it also depends on your personal beliefs and views; I personally believe that it is true. This film showcases that love has no bounds. After so many years two lovers who haven't seen each other in years, since they were teenagers, still felt the same way and were able overcome everything and all the changes that both of them have made over the years.
Both Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling fit their roles beautifully. Rachel, who plays young Allie, has a young face and does a southern accent very well. Ryan, who plays young Noah, is a smooth character and is able to transition well into an older character. Both are very good actors and portray their roles well. James Garner, who plays the older Noah, also is a very moving character; his love a devotion to his wife is very admirable. James brings a lot of emotion to this film, and his scenes help to further communicate the message. This film is also successful in conveying the time settings. The movie was filmed in South Carolina, where the movie actually takes place, this helped give the film a more authentic 1940s feel.
Nick Cassavates attempts to influence our idea and beliefs on the idea of true love. He is not trying to necessarily change our actions, but more so beliefs. The story's message is universal and can relate to anyone of anytime. There are countless stories and films about summer romances, but none quite like this, the story goes far beyond that. The message of the movie is very relevant to everyone of any time or generation. Everyone can relate to some point of the movie; the lovers who are separated but find a way back to each other, the lovers who overcome all, and of course, the summer romances.
Overall, this movie succeeded very well in communicating the message and a very good story. But of course we must give some credit to Nicholas Sparks, who's 1996 novel inspired this film. Nick Cassavates delivered a moving story and an amazing movie. I give this movie a 10/10.