AN UNFINISHED LIFE is a character drama that builds and unfolds. The characters drive the film and you learn about them
as they try to come to terms with the things holding them back. Einar Gilkyson (Robert Redford) has never forgiven Jean (Jennifer
Lopez) for the death of his son. Since his son's death, he has been leaving quietly at his ranch with his trusted friend,
Mitch (Morgan Freeman), who was attacked by a bear last year. Einar must now face Jean and the granddaughter he never known
when they show up at his ranch. Can his heart be healed and can he move forward with his life? Jean is in the same place as
he is. Just living without the passion to live every day. She has left her abusive boyfriend and is at a low place since the
death of Einar's son, (her husband). Set in Wyoming (while filmed in Canada), AN UNFISHED LIFE is a beautifully shot film.
Under the surface is a story that will make you hurt, cry, and sometimes laugh. Redford and Freeman are quite the team together.
They are at the top of their acting game. The hurt and sadness shows in Einar. He wants to strike out at someone or something
when he or a friend is hurt. He thinks killing the bear at the start of the film will make up for him not helping Mitch sooner.
He feels cold to his granddaughter Griff, but soon he warms to her (even if he might never forgive Jean). Einar is still
around due to his strong friendship with Mitch. AN UNFINISHED LIFE will be remembered as a classic.
VIDEO: 2.40:1 (Anamorphic Widescreen)
All I can say it is a nice transfer.
AUDIO: English 5.1 Dolby Digital, French
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish
Natural everyday sounds pop out.
SPECIAL FEATURES: The film audio commentary is with director Lasse Hallstrom, producer Leslie Holleran, and editor Andrew
Mondshein. It is an easy going track and the two things I remember most are: that Lasse Hallstrom directed all of Abba's music
videos and An Unfinished Life was shot in Cinemascope. The Making of An Unfinished Life is a nine minute featurette of people
praising the director, Redford and Freeman talking about their characters, and the bear is a metaphor. Also included is a
featurette on Training Bart The Bear and a production still gallery.
FINAL ANALYSIS: AN UNFINISHED LIFE is a well written, well directed, and well acted character drama. Definitely worth watching
for Redford and Freeman in a movie together.
this review is (c)4-5-2006 David Blackwell and cannot be reprinted without permission (except for excerpts and a link to
the review). Look for additional content at http://enterlinemedia.livejournal.com and send all comments to lord_pragmagtic@hotmail.com
