Synopsis
Andrea, a gifted young Polish violinist from Krakow, is bound for America when he is swept overboard by a storm. When the Widdington sisters discover the handsome stranger on the beach below their house, they nurse him back to health. However, the presence of the musically talented young man disrupts the peaceful lives of Ursula and Janet and the community in which they live.
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Cast
- Judi DenchUrsula
- Maggie SmithJanet
- Daniel BrühlAndrea
- Freddie JonesJan Pendered
- Gregor Henderson-BeggLuke Pendered
- Miriam MargolyesDorcas
- David WarnerDr Mead
- Clive RussellAdam Penruddocke
- Richard PearsBarry
- Natascha McElhoneOlga
Recommendations
- 80
Variety
Full of delightful moments that throw into high relief the actors' craft. - 80
Los Angeles Times
It is a pleasure from start to finish. - 75
Christian Science Monitor
Dance's directorial debut isn't exciting, but it's deeply felt and engagingly acted. Why doesn't he take more advantage of the story's opportunities for fine music, though? - 70
Film Threat
Charles Dance's début feature is an impressive achievement. - 70
The Hollywood Reporter
It is to Dance's considerable credit that he never lets the filmmaking overtake the understated storytelling. - 70
Village Voice
So tastefully subdued it makes Merchant Ivory look like Gaspar Noé. And while they never look bored, Smith and Dench are clearly slumming, having played these roles in other costume pics. - 60
The A.V. Club
It's important to go in knowing the central secret of the movie: Nothing exciting is going to happen. Ever. Armed with that knowledge, viewers should be able to settle down and enjoy the extremely low-key, melancholy character study that plays out between a handful of excellent actors. - 60
The New York Times
The cinematic equivalent of a visit from a cherished but increasingly dithery maiden aunt.
