Reviews

Notwithstanding the oft-mentioned thrown in reference to Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece "North By Northwest" (1959), the movie's nod is clearly to such pieces as "Grand Hotel" (1932) and "Week-end at the Waldorf" (1945) in which the buildings almost take on the form of real characters. Although in unassuming Hallmark territory, that aspect gives this entry a refreshing change of pace, aided by the casting of a newcomer to these proceedings (Elizabeth Henstridge, in a sweetly unaffected performance) paired with a solid and likeable regular (Ryan Paevey). A good one to re-watch.

The night of New York is the perfect set-up for the meeting of two people trapped in their own lives, unable or unwilling to make choices that allow them to plunge ahead and have a more fulfilling existence. Over the course of some hours, glances are taken (Brook's) and words are spoken (Nick's) in such a heartfelt manner, ultimately, giving way to the arising of new possibilities as a couple.

Chris Evans' directorial debut is a gem of sensibility and commitment to the romantic genre, treating the viewer to an intimate perspective of two souls whose felicitous chance encounter has them looking at themselves and each other, while opening meaningful paths they never thought would be there to be taken.

Evans and the gorgeous Alice Eve have great chemistry and play of each other beautifully, while never drawing attention to themselves. It's the message that matters, one that's eloquently delivered by this film.

As a blind character said in a recent movie I watched: "Every time you walk in this room you make me feel something I thought I never would again: possibilities.". In this department, "Before We Go" is unmistakable.