Richard Attenborough's 'Closing The Ring' has quite an unusual cast. I never thought I'd see Shirley MacClaine, Christopher Plummer, Neve Campbell, Pete Postlethwaite and Mischa Barton in one film. The story feels a little contrived and I thought that Attenborough could have developed parts of the plot. For example, how does Ethel Ann resolve her relationship with her almost estranged daughter? Perhaps, it's for the viewer to assume that things went well. Nonetheless, I would have liked to see it. The film shifts back and forth from America to Ireland giving us some beautiful landscape shots of both countries. Attenborough does try to tackle different themes next to the main story and portrays the cultural side of both countries very well (especially the cultural difference between the pubs of Ireland and bars of America). The soundtrack is quite likable as it takes us back in time. Mischa Barton surprisingly delivers a decent performance. I've never liked her TV work but here she's not bad. Likewise with Christopher Plummer. Brenda Fricker has a tiny role but her presence is effective. Allan Hawco does well with what he's given. Pete Postlethwaite is brilliant as usual. Neve Campbell too does a wonderful job. It's been a while since I've seen her work and I liked what I saw. Martin McCann is a delight to watch. He delivers a very natural and humorous performance as Jimmy. 'Closing The Ring', in the end, belongs to Shirley MacClaine. Her character is difficult to sympathise with, especially because of her coldness towards her daughter and husband but at the same time her pain and loneliness is felt. Her Ethel Ann finally gets the closure she needed with the ring and, in the end, thanks to MacClaine's portrayal, one can only feel joy for Ann as she begins to live. On the whole, 'Closing the Ring' has an engaging story, fine acting by an unusual ensemble and refreshing visuals (of the landscapes). Perhaps one can take an elderly relative to watch this film but it also makes for a good date movie.
Review of Closing the Ring
