Plot: What’s it about?
Nickie (Cary Grant) and Terry (Deborah Kerr) are in quite similar situations in life. Both find themselves to be highly sophisticated, yet not deep in riches. They are both engaged to people who are deep in riches, and maybe their feelings are based more on that than anything. Finally, the two share location, they’re both aboard a luxury liner on route to getting married. Of course, these two eventually find themselves together, and a romance ensues. Not just any romance either, a strong and passionate romantic escapade. But as powerful as their new found feelings for each other are, the two realize to act hastily is to act poorly, so they make a pact. When the boat docks in New York, they will go their separate ways, continue their lives as they had previously planned. After six months have passed, if the feelings are still there, then they would meet at the Empire State Building. Alas, things don’t go as planned, and even though Terry still has those feelings, an accident keeps her from making the engagement. Will that brief romance haunt them forever, or will they be able to move on with their lives?
This is without a doubt one of the finest romantic movies ever made. Everything you hanky carrying readers could want from a tear jerker is here, including a powerful and chemistry filled performance by the leading couple. I know this movie is funny, romantic, and sad all rolled into one, and it’s legendary for pulling tears from viewers, but I didn’t shed a single tear. Call me callous, but I didn’t find my emotions explored enough to cry over this movie. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy the film, because I did, I just wanted to make it clear that I didn’t weep while watching. When a movie finally makes me shed those tears, I’ll be sure to let you know. Yeah, An Affair To Remember is a sappy movie, but damn it, it’s a classic. I recommend a viewing to all readers, and a purchase to dedicated fans.
One of the major factors in the success of An Affair To Remember is the casting, especially of the leading couple. Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr turn in splendid performances, and work together so well. This is some of the best romantic chemistry you’re gonna find on the silver screen, and the skillful work by these two alone warrants a viewing. Grant (Charade, Notorious) is a legend of film, and he lives to his reputation here, with one of his most charming performances. The character is so likable and easy going, and many people consider this a defining role for Cary. Kerr (The King & I, King Solomon’s Mines) also gives a charming turn, and she plays right into Grant’s character. An Affair To Remember also features Richard Denning (Creature From The Black Lagoon), Cathleen Nesbitt (Nicholas Nickleby, Three Coins In The Fountain), Neva Patterson (The Solid Gold Cadillac, V), and Fortunio Bonanova (For Whom The Bell Tolls, Romance on the High Sea).
Video: How does it look?
An Affair To Remember is presented in 2.35:1 non anamorphic widescreen. The first thing about this transfer that grabbed my attention is the pristine print used. The print is free from all but minor wear signs, which is quite a feat for a movie this age. Colors are very rich and bright, but never wander into oversaturation. Flesh tones are also a natural spectrum. Black levels are deep and well defined, with excellent visible detail and no shadow errors.
Audio: How does it sound?
The disc utilizes a stereo track for audio, which more than gets the sound across well. While I’m sure a more advanced surround track would have provided a fuller sound, this track is adequate and then some. Even with the limited channels, the audio has no serious problems with separation. The subtle effects come through well, and the dialogue remains at a reasonable and consistent volume at all times.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes a small still photo gallery and the original theatrical trailer. Bonus trailers for other classic Fox movies are also jammed on the disc.
