In recent years there have been more films aimed towards
mature audiences. No one wants to say the words ‘elderly’ or ‘old’, but
several have catered for older viewers wanting something without CGI or an
endless stream of sex and violence. Movies, including ‘The Best Exotic
Marigold Hotel’ and others, have explored the ageing process in an engaging
manner with fine performances. ‘The Time of Their Lives’ follows the same
template. Starring evergreen ladies Joan and Pauline Collins, it’s a fine
journey firmly establishing that age is always just a number.
When her ex-husband dies, former Hollywood movie star Helen
(Joan Collins) travels to France for the funeral. Not wanting to make the
journey alone, she asks new friend Priscilla (Pauline Collins) to join
her. Jumping in the car and hitting the road, the duo quickly become
embroiled in mischief and mayhem. Meeting men like Alberto (Franco Nero),
Helen and Priscilla navigate the personal upheavals such encounters bring
making them focus on the meaning of friendship.
‘The Time of Their Lives’ has much in common with the stage
play/movie ‘Shirley Valentine’. Both feature ladies searching for more in life
and trying to sort out the baggage of past relationships. Perhaps it’s no
coincidence that both featured the talents of Pauline Collins. She’s
always had a special talent for conveying the yearning for new pastures without
her characters feeling desperate. She is accompanied with style in Joan
Collins’ troubled character, with the famous ‘Dynasty’ diva putting in a strong
performance.
Whilst it provides an engaging journey and a smattering of
genuine laughs, ‘The Time of Their Lives’ feels familiar. Think an
old-time version of ‘Thelma and Louise’ and you wouldn’t be far off. The
plot occasionally creaks under its own dated antiquity, but its premise of
facing the past and forging new horizons no matter what age is engagingly
handled. The French scenery is gorgeous to look at as always with Roger
Goldby’s smooth direction making the most out of a clichéd story.
It’s pleasurable seeing older actors strut their
stuff. They know how to project their roles well with ‘The Time of Their
Lives’ benefitting from their experience. Ageing gracefully is something
we could all learn although having fun while doing so like the film’s
characters is a lesson we should never forget.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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