James Ivory proves to be a guarantee of grace when trying to render the complexity of those novels where the evocative power of the word must be translated into the visual form. The result, in this movie, like in his previous adaptations of great literary classics, is an elegant and graceful transposition of the novel by Peter Cameron. I read it some years ago, and watching the movie allowed me to recall it, not only from the point of view of the plot (which was not totally respected, indeed), but what gradually emerged in my mind was the subtle emotional tension running through it from the beginning. It is a novel full of drama, passion, inner conflicts, emerging gradually, almost softly, through rapid but effective dialogues, where each word is a powerful means, and as the movie proves adherence to this pattern, we gradually get into the emotional world of this strange family, and feel a strong involvement. Ivory's style remains the same as usual: elegant photography, careful screenplay, care for the single detail, little but significant musical underlining. The only limit is the hasty final movement towards a happy ending, which gives little justice to the novel, mainly to the character of Omar, who eventually find his own path in a too hasty way. And also the complex character of Caroline is not fully respected in the way the real motivations behind her first choice were cut off from the movie, thus depriving her of some more depth, evident in the novel. Talented acting, mainly from female cast (but Anthony Hopkins proves always impeccable) supports the overall high quality of the movie: everyone is so fit for his/her role, that having read the novel, I think no better cast could have been chosen. A refined movie, which however urges to go back to the novel in order to clear up some unconvincing points.
32 Reviews
Screened 25 minutes of it!
aquasock24 March 2009
Just got to see a 25 minutes sneak peak at the Monterey Film Festival over the weekend, and I can tell you it certainly left me wanting more! The scenery was lush and beautiful. Anthony Hopkins is in his element, playing the brother of the dead author, and I am particularly excited for Linney's performance as the pinched and long-suffering widow, who shares the same living space with her husband's mistress. It's hard to say whether it will dip into the melodramatic, since we were only allowed to see such a short bit of it, but considering the strong cast, and solid performances we were able to see, this film looks as though it will not disappoint.
Great potential not so good on the delivery
airdrieguy3 January 2011
Warning: Spoilers
Omar Metwally does not come across as innocent but someone with an agenda who needs to appear innocent. I can buy him as a schemer looking for a way into these people's lives as what better way than to be a wide-eyed sycophant? But they would have to be extremely naive to buy him as such.
As individuals the other characters were brilliant but somehow they did not mesh together as a believable group. Too much unsaid and too many back stories untold (e.g. why did the deceased author take up with a woman other than his wife? why did the wife so willingly accept "the other woman" and her child into the household?) The ending hokey and contrived.
The cinematography was visually spelling binding.
Certainly not a rush and out and buy, or even rent for that matter, movie.
As individuals the other characters were brilliant but somehow they did not mesh together as a believable group. Too much unsaid and too many back stories untold (e.g. why did the deceased author take up with a woman other than his wife? why did the wife so willingly accept "the other woman" and her child into the household?) The ending hokey and contrived.
The cinematography was visually spelling binding.
Certainly not a rush and out and buy, or even rent for that matter, movie.
Desire To A Final Destination
Chrysanthepop26 March 2011
One thing that has remained consistent in Merchant Ivory films is the elegance. They have a classy and stylish look which never feels overdone. 'The City of Your Final Destination' works in various way. It works as a mood piece, as a study of characters, a love story and a mystery.
The film has a lyrical feel to it. The humour is subtle and welcoming as its timing is just right. The dialogues are poetic and the interactions between the characters are splendid. The character development is brilliant and the flourishment of the romance between Omar and Arden is delightful to watch.
The Merchant Ivory team always had an eye for visuals. Each and every frame is exquisitely detailed. Javier Aguirresarobe's stunning cinematography captures the beauty of the Uruguayan landscape and interiors and wonderfully highlights each frame. The soundtrack is magic.
The unique eclectic international ensemble is spellbinding. With actors like Anthony Hopkins, Norma Aleandro, Hiroyuki Sanada, Laura Linney, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Omar Metwally and Alexandra Maria Lara, could one ask for something better? Each and every one of them do a fantastic job.
Merchant Ivory have created another classy gem. It's a shame that 'The City of Your Final Destination' received so little recognition. I wish films like this were made more often.
The film has a lyrical feel to it. The humour is subtle and welcoming as its timing is just right. The dialogues are poetic and the interactions between the characters are splendid. The character development is brilliant and the flourishment of the romance between Omar and Arden is delightful to watch.
The Merchant Ivory team always had an eye for visuals. Each and every frame is exquisitely detailed. Javier Aguirresarobe's stunning cinematography captures the beauty of the Uruguayan landscape and interiors and wonderfully highlights each frame. The soundtrack is magic.
The unique eclectic international ensemble is spellbinding. With actors like Anthony Hopkins, Norma Aleandro, Hiroyuki Sanada, Laura Linney, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Omar Metwally and Alexandra Maria Lara, could one ask for something better? Each and every one of them do a fantastic job.
Merchant Ivory have created another classy gem. It's a shame that 'The City of Your Final Destination' received so little recognition. I wish films like this were made more often.
lush filming, plot falls short, some actors are superb
LyceeM1610 January 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I am immensely pleased to have found this film. Many of the performances (Anthony Hopkins, Hiroyuki Sanada, Alexandra Lara, and Laura Linney) were inspired but some (Charlotte Gainsburg) were not. The story is engaging but there were many aspects of the plot that did not make real practical or emotional sense. The motion of the plot is a bit formulaic. The story drew me in in spite of the gaps, however. The cinematography is lush and beautiful. I particularly liked the warmth of the relationship between Hopkins' and Sanada's characters and the coldness at the heart of both Linney's and Lara's portrayal of their characters. When all is said and done, as E.M. Forster said: "only connect."
Surprising failure by Laura Linney
airfoyle26 September 2010
I never thought I would see a movie in which Laura Linney was the weak link. This movie had the potential to be a standard Ivory-Merchant adaptation of a mildly pretentious book of the touchy-feely genre. It looked different in the video store, but that's what it turned out to be. Well, lots of people love that kind of thing; just not me.
However, I really do like good actors such as Anthony Hopkins and Laura Linney. Charlotte Gainsbourg is quite good, in her own inimitable and mysterious way. And Alexandra Maria Lara, whom I had never seen before, is outstanding in this flick.
The huge disappointment, however, turns out to be Ms. Linney, who I have never seen misfire before. She plays an utterly charmless woman, which she must have seen as an interesting challenge, because she is said to be a very charming person. Unfortunately, she overdoes it, and produces a character repellent beyond belief. Meanwhile, Ms. Lara is showing her how it's done, playing another obnoxious woman, but with the occasional vulnerability that makes us not want to flee whenever she shows up.
However, I really do like good actors such as Anthony Hopkins and Laura Linney. Charlotte Gainsbourg is quite good, in her own inimitable and mysterious way. And Alexandra Maria Lara, whom I had never seen before, is outstanding in this flick.
The huge disappointment, however, turns out to be Ms. Linney, who I have never seen misfire before. She plays an utterly charmless woman, which she must have seen as an interesting challenge, because she is said to be a very charming person. Unfortunately, she overdoes it, and produces a character repellent beyond belief. Meanwhile, Ms. Lara is showing her how it's done, playing another obnoxious woman, but with the occasional vulnerability that makes us not want to flee whenever she shows up.
Ther remains of the dead
kapelusznik1810 May 2016
Warning: Spoilers
***SPOILERS***Beautifuly photographed-in living color- but confusing movie about a young graduate student Omar Ragazhi, Omar Matwally,from the University of Colorado being forced by his nagging girlfriend Deirdre Rothemund, Alexandra Maria Lara, to travel down to to Uruguay and get permission from the family of the late writer Jules Gund to write his biography. It turns out that Omar is at a dead end in his life and needs to write the biography of Jules Gund to get his PHD as well as life back together again.
Off to Uruguay Omar learns that the Gund family especially his widowed wife Caroline, Laura Linney, want nothing at all to do with him much less give him permission to write or authorize him write Gund's biography. He does get involved with Gund's older brother Adam, Anthony Hopkins, in a smuggling scheme to smuggle out of the country the family jewels that never seems to go anywhere and is later dropped altogether. Instead Omar falls in love with Arden Langdon, Charlotte Gainsbourg, the late Jules Gund's girlfriend who let him in on why he killed himself in that he couldn't come up with a final end his last novel.
Allowed to stay at the Gund residence Omar becomes part of the family and even strikes up a friendship with Adam lover as well as 40 year old houseboy Pete, Hiroyuki Sanada, who later saves his life after he was attacked by a swam of killer bees. Hospitalized and near death Omar's girlfriend from the states Deirdre shows up and finds out that he's no longer in love or even interested in her! In that he's found better things in life then her to hook up with. It all comes together in the end when Caroline agrees to let Omar write her husbands Jules' biography only to burns the unfinished manuscript of his last novel which was critical in Omar writing it!
P.S The film seem to be going nowhere and ended up on a high note with all involved, who were still around, at some concert at what looked like New York's Carnegie Hall taking in the music and trying to forget what they've been through in the movie and just have a good night out!
Off to Uruguay Omar learns that the Gund family especially his widowed wife Caroline, Laura Linney, want nothing at all to do with him much less give him permission to write or authorize him write Gund's biography. He does get involved with Gund's older brother Adam, Anthony Hopkins, in a smuggling scheme to smuggle out of the country the family jewels that never seems to go anywhere and is later dropped altogether. Instead Omar falls in love with Arden Langdon, Charlotte Gainsbourg, the late Jules Gund's girlfriend who let him in on why he killed himself in that he couldn't come up with a final end his last novel.
Allowed to stay at the Gund residence Omar becomes part of the family and even strikes up a friendship with Adam lover as well as 40 year old houseboy Pete, Hiroyuki Sanada, who later saves his life after he was attacked by a swam of killer bees. Hospitalized and near death Omar's girlfriend from the states Deirdre shows up and finds out that he's no longer in love or even interested in her! In that he's found better things in life then her to hook up with. It all comes together in the end when Caroline agrees to let Omar write her husbands Jules' biography only to burns the unfinished manuscript of his last novel which was critical in Omar writing it!
P.S The film seem to be going nowhere and ended up on a high note with all involved, who were still around, at some concert at what looked like New York's Carnegie Hall taking in the music and trying to forget what they've been through in the movie and just have a good night out!
Final Destination: the Ruined City of Rom-Com
tigerfish5031 July 2010
The basic premise of "The City of Your Final Destination" is almost identical to "The Aspern Papers". Omar, a professor of literature at a provincial US college, plans to write the biography of an author who has committed suicide, but the deceased man's widow, mistress and brother refuse to authorize his project. Omar leaves his bossy girlfriend Deirdre in the US, and travels to Uruguay to persuade the eccentric trio to change their minds. On arrival, he finds them living in uneasy bohemian splendor at their ranch estate. Inexplicably Omar is invited to stay, and is soon attracted to the author's former mistress, even though this complication might endanger his literary quest.
The film's chief weakness becomes sharply apparent at this point - Ivory and Jhabvala seem unsure whether they are making a drama or a comedy. Laura Linney's widow Caroline attempts to keep a foot in both camps, while Anthony Hopkins opts for comedy and hams it up as the gay brother. The romantic element sputters weakly as Charlotte Gainsbourg's ex-mistress tries to make something of the tepid intrigue provided by the script. The literary authorization fizzles away into a non-event as the film zigzags unconvincingly between the various genres - and by the time the confused Omar has fallen off a ladder and into a coma, requiring the arrival of humorless Deirdre to nurse him back to health, it's clear the film has irretrievably lost its way. Eventually, everything wrapped up in a moldy blanket of romantic comedy when a pair of damp lovers embrace their predictable fate in a torrential rainstorm.
The film's chief weakness becomes sharply apparent at this point - Ivory and Jhabvala seem unsure whether they are making a drama or a comedy. Laura Linney's widow Caroline attempts to keep a foot in both camps, while Anthony Hopkins opts for comedy and hams it up as the gay brother. The romantic element sputters weakly as Charlotte Gainsbourg's ex-mistress tries to make something of the tepid intrigue provided by the script. The literary authorization fizzles away into a non-event as the film zigzags unconvincingly between the various genres - and by the time the confused Omar has fallen off a ladder and into a coma, requiring the arrival of humorless Deirdre to nurse him back to health, it's clear the film has irretrievably lost its way. Eventually, everything wrapped up in a moldy blanket of romantic comedy when a pair of damp lovers embrace their predictable fate in a torrential rainstorm.
A Confounding Compound
ferguson-63 July 2010
Greetings again from the darkness. Most everyone is familiar with the peak of Merchant-Ivory genius which included: A Room With a View, Remains of the Day, and Howerd's End to name a few. Ismail Merchant died a few years ago, but director James Ivory returns with a powerful, yet odd film based on Peter Cameron's novel.
The film boasts a very nice cast: Anthony Hopkins as the aging, gay man who is the brother of a famous (now dead) novelist; Laura Linney as the widow of the writer; and Charlotte Gainsbourg as the writer's former mistress. Oh yeah, these three all live together in a compound in Uruguay on land the writer left behind after his suicide.
The story gets interesting when Omar (played by Omar Metwally) shows up unannounced after receiving a declination of his offer to write a biography on the novelist. Hopkins supports the idea as he expects it will generate book sales and revenue for the group. Linney is flat against it thinking it will spill too many secrets. Gainsbourg initially sides with Linney, but changes her vote when she falls for Omar.
On the surface, the story is about Omar's attempt to win Linney's bitter character to change her mind. The much more interesting story is Omar's awakening in this oddball community now that he is out of the grasp of his domineering type A girlfriend and co-worker played superbly by Alexandra Maria Lara. Talk about a personality that makes you want to turn and walk away! She almost makes Linney's character seem humane.
Mr. Ivory excels in subtlety and he is in fine form here. So many "little" moments make this story really click. Not to mention it is beautifully photographed. This is a really good film that will probably get lost in the mass confusion of summer giants like Twilight and Toy Story 3. If you get the chance, make the time to see this one.
The film boasts a very nice cast: Anthony Hopkins as the aging, gay man who is the brother of a famous (now dead) novelist; Laura Linney as the widow of the writer; and Charlotte Gainsbourg as the writer's former mistress. Oh yeah, these three all live together in a compound in Uruguay on land the writer left behind after his suicide.
The story gets interesting when Omar (played by Omar Metwally) shows up unannounced after receiving a declination of his offer to write a biography on the novelist. Hopkins supports the idea as he expects it will generate book sales and revenue for the group. Linney is flat against it thinking it will spill too many secrets. Gainsbourg initially sides with Linney, but changes her vote when she falls for Omar.
On the surface, the story is about Omar's attempt to win Linney's bitter character to change her mind. The much more interesting story is Omar's awakening in this oddball community now that he is out of the grasp of his domineering type A girlfriend and co-worker played superbly by Alexandra Maria Lara. Talk about a personality that makes you want to turn and walk away! She almost makes Linney's character seem humane.
Mr. Ivory excels in subtlety and he is in fine form here. So many "little" moments make this story really click. Not to mention it is beautifully photographed. This is a really good film that will probably get lost in the mass confusion of summer giants like Twilight and Toy Story 3. If you get the chance, make the time to see this one.
Destination Dullsville
steven-22221 August 2010
Painfully dull, pretentious, and obtuse. James Ivory (with late partner Ismail Merchant) has made some great movies over the years; this is not among them. Indeed, as a longtime Merchant-Ivory fan, I'd have to say this is probably the weakest of his films I've seen, completely lacking the charm of "A Room With a View," or the depth of "Remains of the Day," or the bravura performances of "The Golden Bowl." Omar Metwally simply is not a strong enough actor to carry this movie; he's way out of his league with everyone around him (except poor wooden Charlotte Gainsbourg; when they share a scene the result is painful to watch.). I suspect the original novel was simply too precious to bring out Ivory's grand touch; an unfortunate choice of material.
The Impact of Desire and Love
gradyharp25 August 2010
James Cameron's elegant, wistful novel THE CITY OF YOUR FINAL DESTINATION has been well transitioned to the screen by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala and director James Ivory: in so many ways this film brings a host of fond memories of all of the films made by the members of Merchant Ivory films. It has the same sense of grace of transporting one culture into another, of examining interpersonal relationships as they are tied to etiquette and tradition and family, and the chances we take in the name of self-fulfillment and love. It is a mood piece and a delectable offering for the brain.
Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally) is a postgraduate student and instructor at a Colorado College, living in a tenuous relationship with Deirdre (Alexandra Maria Lara), and delaying his desire to write his PhD thesis -a proposed biography of deceased novelist Jules Gund. He is unhappy with his life, frustrated that his thesis committee will not approve of his dissertation unless he has the family of Jules Gund's permission to write the biography. After a little nudge from a colleague he decides to travel to Uruguay - without Deirdre - to gain permission from the Gund family to proceed. Deirdre, hurt because Omar wants to go without her, insists that Omar travel to Uruguay: this may his only chance to step out of the life whose rut he is in and move on to higher means.
Omar journeys to Uruguay where he meets the Gund 'family' - Gund's gay brother, Adam (Anthony Hopkins) and his lover of 25 years Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada); former wife Caroline (Laura Linney); and Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg), Gund's mistress and mother of Gund's daughter, Portia. Though greeted with hospitality it is clear that the family, as executors of Gund's estate, refuse to give Omar permission. Omar is invited to live with the Gund's until he can make arrangements to return to the US, but the visit is extended, allowing for changes to insert in the family unity as each one slowly agrees to allow Omar to write the biography. Omar has a fall, is recovered by Arden (Deirdre flies to Uruguay for support but senses the change in Omar's feelings with Arden), and during his recovery Omar awakens to what he really wants in life - love, beauty, and the freedom to express himself in all matters.
In the manner of fine story telling, there are excellent moments of passion, and comedy, and a fine dissection of family life in all its permutations. The cast is uniformly excellent, composed of such a stellar group of actors. This is a quiet adagio of a film, filled with charm, elegant cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe, and fine music - both from the classics and from contemporary writing by Jorge Drexler. This film retains the 'Merchant Ivory': and that says enough! Grady Harp, August 10
Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally) is a postgraduate student and instructor at a Colorado College, living in a tenuous relationship with Deirdre (Alexandra Maria Lara), and delaying his desire to write his PhD thesis -a proposed biography of deceased novelist Jules Gund. He is unhappy with his life, frustrated that his thesis committee will not approve of his dissertation unless he has the family of Jules Gund's permission to write the biography. After a little nudge from a colleague he decides to travel to Uruguay - without Deirdre - to gain permission from the Gund family to proceed. Deirdre, hurt because Omar wants to go without her, insists that Omar travel to Uruguay: this may his only chance to step out of the life whose rut he is in and move on to higher means.
Omar journeys to Uruguay where he meets the Gund 'family' - Gund's gay brother, Adam (Anthony Hopkins) and his lover of 25 years Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada); former wife Caroline (Laura Linney); and Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg), Gund's mistress and mother of Gund's daughter, Portia. Though greeted with hospitality it is clear that the family, as executors of Gund's estate, refuse to give Omar permission. Omar is invited to live with the Gund's until he can make arrangements to return to the US, but the visit is extended, allowing for changes to insert in the family unity as each one slowly agrees to allow Omar to write the biography. Omar has a fall, is recovered by Arden (Deirdre flies to Uruguay for support but senses the change in Omar's feelings with Arden), and during his recovery Omar awakens to what he really wants in life - love, beauty, and the freedom to express himself in all matters.
In the manner of fine story telling, there are excellent moments of passion, and comedy, and a fine dissection of family life in all its permutations. The cast is uniformly excellent, composed of such a stellar group of actors. This is a quiet adagio of a film, filled with charm, elegant cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe, and fine music - both from the classics and from contemporary writing by Jorge Drexler. This film retains the 'Merchant Ivory': and that says enough! Grady Harp, August 10
slow, flat, long
SnoopyStyle3 August 2016
Grad student Omar Razaghi wants to write an authorized biography on his favorite writer, the late Jules Gund, but his estate refuses. It consists of his older brother Adam (Anthony Hopkins), mistress Arden Langdon (Charlotte Gainsbourg), and wife Caroline (Laura Linney) who all live in a remote settlement in Uruguay. Omar's girlfriend pushes him to travel to Uruguay to change their minds. Arden takes a liking to him. Caroline insists on withholding approval. The settlement is facing a large land tax and Adam agrees to approve if Omar helps him secretly sell some family jewels. Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada) is also part of the group who ages used furniture to sell as antiques.
James Ivory is continuing on without Ismail Merchant. Omar Metwally delivers a very flat performance that keeps this interesting group static. Ivory seems intend on a slow, flat mood. It takes much too long to get to the fireworks and there is plenty of potential. It's obvious from the start but the movie insists on dragging it out for too long.
James Ivory is continuing on without Ismail Merchant. Omar Metwally delivers a very flat performance that keeps this interesting group static. Ivory seems intend on a slow, flat mood. It takes much too long to get to the fireworks and there is plenty of potential. It's obvious from the start but the movie insists on dragging it out for too long.
The apparent subject is getting permission for a book, but it is really all about finding your path in life.
TxMike16 September 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I rarely read fiction but I made an exception for this movie. When I learned that it was coming out on DVD, I found the source book in my public library and read it one afternoon. I enjoyed it, and last night I settled in to see the DVD.
The story is nominally about a young English professor (Omar) getting a nice grant to research and write an authorized biography about a somewhat obscure author in Uraguay. But the author has died, actually killed himself, and the three co-executors of the estate write back that they will NOT give their permission, and they don't think having one is a good idea. So the young professor at the prodding of his girlfriend (Deirdre), a fellow English professor, travels to Uraguay unannounced, to Rio Ochos, the large spread of land owned by the family.
It is an unusual grouping. The author's widow Caroline (Laura Linney) shares a home with the author's surviving brother Adam (Anthony Hopkins) and the brother's 40-year-old adopted son Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada) who is has also become his gay lover in adult life. Across the way, a short walk, lives the mistress Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg) of the dead author and their young daughter. All of them seem to get along quite nicely, mostly living off the land and wealth inherited from their ancestors. But the wealth is running low and a biography may be good to renew the interest in the work of the dead author.
So Omar manages to find them, riding the last part of the trek in the same school bus carrying the young daughter. With no hotels nearby Caroline insists he stay with them, but she tells him frankly she doesn't understand why he came, she had made up her mind and no biography will be authorized. But Omar knows, if he doesn't write an authorized biography he will forfeit the grant and possibly lose his teaching job.
I really enjoyed this movie. The situations are novel and the acting is uniformly fine. It doesn't rush and I found the concluding scenes very satisfying. The movie is very true to the book.
SPOILERS: It becomes clear from the very beginning that Omar is patronized and almost treated like a child by his girlfriend. She wants to go with him to Uraguay because, as she tells him, she doesn't think he has the ability to handle it on his own. So the whole movie is really about Omar finding his own voice, and figuring out where he wants his own life to go. While in Uraguay he really falls for Arden, and after he gets back to his "real life" after 4 months he returns to Uraguay, again unannounced, because that his what he wants his life to be, with them and with Arden. Right before that is a scene in his classroom, he asks a question at the period's end, asks if anyone knows the answer, but they all ignore him and head out of the classroom. The apathy displayed there convinced him he didn't want that life.
The story is nominally about a young English professor (Omar) getting a nice grant to research and write an authorized biography about a somewhat obscure author in Uraguay. But the author has died, actually killed himself, and the three co-executors of the estate write back that they will NOT give their permission, and they don't think having one is a good idea. So the young professor at the prodding of his girlfriend (Deirdre), a fellow English professor, travels to Uraguay unannounced, to Rio Ochos, the large spread of land owned by the family.
It is an unusual grouping. The author's widow Caroline (Laura Linney) shares a home with the author's surviving brother Adam (Anthony Hopkins) and the brother's 40-year-old adopted son Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada) who is has also become his gay lover in adult life. Across the way, a short walk, lives the mistress Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg) of the dead author and their young daughter. All of them seem to get along quite nicely, mostly living off the land and wealth inherited from their ancestors. But the wealth is running low and a biography may be good to renew the interest in the work of the dead author.
So Omar manages to find them, riding the last part of the trek in the same school bus carrying the young daughter. With no hotels nearby Caroline insists he stay with them, but she tells him frankly she doesn't understand why he came, she had made up her mind and no biography will be authorized. But Omar knows, if he doesn't write an authorized biography he will forfeit the grant and possibly lose his teaching job.
I really enjoyed this movie. The situations are novel and the acting is uniformly fine. It doesn't rush and I found the concluding scenes very satisfying. The movie is very true to the book.
SPOILERS: It becomes clear from the very beginning that Omar is patronized and almost treated like a child by his girlfriend. She wants to go with him to Uraguay because, as she tells him, she doesn't think he has the ability to handle it on his own. So the whole movie is really about Omar finding his own voice, and figuring out where he wants his own life to go. While in Uraguay he really falls for Arden, and after he gets back to his "real life" after 4 months he returns to Uraguay, again unannounced, because that his what he wants his life to be, with them and with Arden. Right before that is a scene in his classroom, he asks a question at the period's end, asks if anyone knows the answer, but they all ignore him and head out of the classroom. The apathy displayed there convinced him he didn't want that life.
The film of Ivory's final destination
liljeter15139 April 2010
I recently saw this film at a festival in a nearby town. I was very disappointed to find that it was not a sequel to the ever lasting "Final Destination" series, because at least then I would have no expectations for the film. I stepped into the theater and as the film began to roll it showed beautiful scenery but as the film went on my hopes slowly fell by the minute. After watching for an hour I wanted to walk out of the theater and not look back, but out of respect for any members of the cast or film crew I sat in my seat hoping each minute would conclude the film. The acting was bland and showed the least emotion in a role I have seen since the Bill O' Riley show. I hope that says enough, because the actors might as well have been reading off a teleprompter. The only amusing part of the film was Anthony Hopkins wit and flamboyant humor. But not even the Oscar winning actor could save this sinking ship movie, the titanic has a better chance of floating again then this movie does of being seen by me twice.
Like a classic piece of literature, beautifully performed
napierslogs19 September 2010
"The City of Your Final Destination" is about a young man (Omar Metwally) trying to write a biography of a late writer. He travels to Uruguay to meet the family still living on the estate. It's very reminiscent of "The Last Station" (2009), and just as good -- in its own way.
The cast is completely remarkable. Laura Linney plays the cold, mysterious widow; Anthony Hopkins plays the wise, and yet child-like brother; Charlotte Gainsbourg is an emotionally-affected beauty. New-comer Omar Metwally played a perfectly sculpted character whom we wanted to follow, but was flanked by the opposing Alexandra Maria Lara. These characters were so exquisitely created and performed that I would forget they were just actors. With a few parallels to "The Last Station", I was reminded that Hopkins was the original choice to play the elderly Tolstoy, but their schedules never jived. I'm assuming Hopkins then purposely sought out this film to be able to explore some similar characters. Great choice.
Written by the great and pioneering female screenwriter, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, and brought to vision by James Ivory, "The City of Your Final Destination" explores themes of literature and of people moving on in their lives once they realize that the central figure that once held them all together no longer is, and of course all of their romantic entanglements. It's shot beautifully in South America and plays out like a classic piece of literature. Recommended for fans of character studies and readers of good books.
The cast is completely remarkable. Laura Linney plays the cold, mysterious widow; Anthony Hopkins plays the wise, and yet child-like brother; Charlotte Gainsbourg is an emotionally-affected beauty. New-comer Omar Metwally played a perfectly sculpted character whom we wanted to follow, but was flanked by the opposing Alexandra Maria Lara. These characters were so exquisitely created and performed that I would forget they were just actors. With a few parallels to "The Last Station", I was reminded that Hopkins was the original choice to play the elderly Tolstoy, but their schedules never jived. I'm assuming Hopkins then purposely sought out this film to be able to explore some similar characters. Great choice.
Written by the great and pioneering female screenwriter, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, and brought to vision by James Ivory, "The City of Your Final Destination" explores themes of literature and of people moving on in their lives once they realize that the central figure that once held them all together no longer is, and of course all of their romantic entanglements. It's shot beautifully in South America and plays out like a classic piece of literature. Recommended for fans of character studies and readers of good books.
Three Years Late...But Well Worth The Wait
druid333-225 April 2010
I,for one,have always admired Merchant/Ivory productions for it's bravura for taking classic (and even some not so classic)novels,and bringing them to the screen. Despite the sad passing of Ismael Merchant a few years back,James Ivory,and screenwriter Ruth Prawer Jhabvala have made going to the movies a joy (for the most part). Granted,James Ivory has directed his share of mis-steps (but who hasn't?). This film was actually produced three years ago,but is just now getting distribution. The story focuses on a professor of literature at an un-named college,named Omar Metwally who is trying to get the legal okay to write a biography of an author who only had one novel ever published. Problem is,the family of the author is flatly refusing permission for the novel to be written. When he decides to travel to South America to meet with the family to get permission (not a good idea),he finds out what a dysfunctional family they are (and also finds out the dirty little family secrets,as well as any & all skeletons in the proverbial family closet). When Omar's overbearing girl friend,Deirdre arrives to check on Omar's progress,things get more interesting. James Ivory directs a screenplay written by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala,adapted from the novel by Peter Cameron. The sumptuous photography is courtesy of the ever so fine Javier Aguirresarobe,with editing by John David Allen. The film's musical score is composed & arranged by Jorge Drexler. The great Sir Anthony Hopkins,who is given top credit,is Adam,an aged gay man,living in the shadows of the past,as is his sister in law,Caroline,who gets by with sardonic wit & daily doses of alcohol,played by Laura Linney,who just smacks of queen harpie. Omar Razaghi is Omar Metwally,who is the centre of all of this. Charlotte Gainsbourg,most recently seen in Lars Van Trier's 'Antichrist',is Arden Langdon,a hanger on,as well as an Au Pair to Caroline's daughter. The rest of the cast is rounded out by Hiroyuke Sanada,as Pete,Adam's live in lover,Alexandra Maria Lara,as Dierdre,a pushy,bossy,overbearing woman who seems to be planning Omar's life,and the great Norma Aleandro (not seen enough in this film),as Mrs. Van Euwen,who is always on the make for a romantic fling with just about any man who will acknowledge her. All of this makes for an intelligent & entertaining evening at the movies. Spoken (mostly)in English,and Spanish with English subtitles. Rated PG-13 by the MPAA,for some brief nudity & adult content
Omar Metwally not enough actor, out of his league
carlos51224 August 2020
Despite having amazing actors as Laura Linney, Norma Aleandro, Hiroyuki Sanada Anthony Hopkins the movie fails to click with me.
Mainly because of two reasons. One, the movie depends too much on the performance on actor in main character. Sadly, Omar Metwally was by far not one for this kind of delicate and charming work. Metwally fails miserably and it is obvious that he is completely out of his league besides Linney, Sanada and Hopkins
Secondly, even though The City of your Final Desination is well-intentioned and starts with a good premise, it does not develop at all. The result is a film nothing but boring to a really high degree.
I would not recommend this movie, unless you are a die hard fan of the great Hopkins, Sanada or Linney.
The famous Argentina theater legend Norma Aleandro is even in a couple minutes in the movie, obviously under-used.
I gave it a 5 out of 10 just because Hopkins, Sanada and Linney are in there. They did their job. But the boring script and the poor main character ruined it 100%.
Mainly because of two reasons. One, the movie depends too much on the performance on actor in main character. Sadly, Omar Metwally was by far not one for this kind of delicate and charming work. Metwally fails miserably and it is obvious that he is completely out of his league besides Linney, Sanada and Hopkins
Secondly, even though The City of your Final Desination is well-intentioned and starts with a good premise, it does not develop at all. The result is a film nothing but boring to a really high degree.
I would not recommend this movie, unless you are a die hard fan of the great Hopkins, Sanada or Linney.
The famous Argentina theater legend Norma Aleandro is even in a couple minutes in the movie, obviously under-used.
I gave it a 5 out of 10 just because Hopkins, Sanada and Linney are in there. They did their job. But the boring script and the poor main character ruined it 100%.
City of Your Final Destination
filmlover33312 March 2010
City of Your Final Destination This first solo project from director James Ivory, from what little I saw of the film it promises to deliver.
True to form Ivory makes the most of exotic locations and an a stellar international cast.
The incomparable Anthony Hopkins rarely disappoints and in this role he more than exceeds any expectation.
Laura Linney plays her role of the tightly wound widow to perfection while Charlotte Gainsbourg is splendid as the vulnerable mistress.
Omar Metwally, the biographer, and Alexandra Maria Lara, his overly ambitious girlfriend, are superb.
The dialogue is written by Ruth Prawler Jhabvala has captured the essence of Peter Cameron's novel of the same name.
True to form Ivory makes the most of exotic locations and an a stellar international cast.
The incomparable Anthony Hopkins rarely disappoints and in this role he more than exceeds any expectation.
Laura Linney plays her role of the tightly wound widow to perfection while Charlotte Gainsbourg is splendid as the vulnerable mistress.
Omar Metwally, the biographer, and Alexandra Maria Lara, his overly ambitious girlfriend, are superb.
The dialogue is written by Ruth Prawler Jhabvala has captured the essence of Peter Cameron's novel of the same name.
I couldn't enjoy it
veroguerra315 June 2019
Maybe the movie is great, I don't really know.
The first minutes throw me off so bad that I could get into the plot comfortably. I'm Uruguayan and what is shown is not here and the people that spoke Spanish in the first scenes are not Uruguayan also (and they didn't even try), and I'm willing to bet that it was shot in Argentina. Close, but not the same and it was so unnecessary. Cloud have been placed in rural Argentina and it wouldn't change a thing about the main story, but if you are going to make it set in Uruguay, just do it. Why they would do such a thing? That was awful.
The first minutes throw me off so bad that I could get into the plot comfortably. I'm Uruguayan and what is shown is not here and the people that spoke Spanish in the first scenes are not Uruguayan also (and they didn't even try), and I'm willing to bet that it was shot in Argentina. Close, but not the same and it was so unnecessary. Cloud have been placed in rural Argentina and it wouldn't change a thing about the main story, but if you are going to make it set in Uruguay, just do it. Why they would do such a thing? That was awful.
Open a bottle of red, sit back....and enjoy.
skillswordfish26 November 2011
Although I truly love watching this entire cast in other movies, I recorded this on my DVR for one reason only: Hiroyuki Sanada. And I'm so glad I did. A long time fan of Ivory/Merchant films, I expected a story to unfold beautifully and it definitely does here. It's soft, subtle, realistic, and warm. It's like spending an evening in front of a cozy fire with good company. Nothing is over acted, there's no fancy effects or crazy cinematography, just good, solid storytelling with an absolutely perfect cast. These are the films Hollywood should aspire to. I've had enough of 3D action and fantasy films for awhile. So please, watch this and remember why we fell in love with film.
The acting is terrific....the pacing is glacial.
planktonrules13 January 2024
Omar is a graduate student who wants to write an authorized biography about a famous Latin American writer. However, he receives a letter from his estate denying him permission to write the book. Omar's girlfriend convinces him to just show up at the family home and ask them in person for permission...though this means going all the way to the middle of no where in Uruguay to meet them.
When Omar arrives, he's welcomed by the dead author's mistress. Oddly, she lives with the widow (Laura Linney) as well as the author's brother (Anthony Hopkins) and they invite him to stay. Omar does...in the hope that they will change their mind.
Over time, Omar finds him falling for the dead man's mistress. But at about the same time, there is an accident and Omar is soon in a coma in a hospital. The family calls Omar's girlfriend, who comes to see him. You very quickly see and realize that their relationship is not healthy, as the girlfriend is controlling and mother's Omar instead of loving him. What's next? See the film.
The acting is very nice in this film. But the story itself is SLOW...glacially slow. I know that director James Ivory is known for this sort of pacing...but here it really made it difficult to stick with the film or stay awake. Technically, a very good film...but one that is tough to love...at least for me.
When Omar arrives, he's welcomed by the dead author's mistress. Oddly, she lives with the widow (Laura Linney) as well as the author's brother (Anthony Hopkins) and they invite him to stay. Omar does...in the hope that they will change their mind.
Over time, Omar finds him falling for the dead man's mistress. But at about the same time, there is an accident and Omar is soon in a coma in a hospital. The family calls Omar's girlfriend, who comes to see him. You very quickly see and realize that their relationship is not healthy, as the girlfriend is controlling and mother's Omar instead of loving him. What's next? See the film.
The acting is very nice in this film. But the story itself is SLOW...glacially slow. I know that director James Ivory is known for this sort of pacing...but here it really made it difficult to stick with the film or stay awake. Technically, a very good film...but one that is tough to love...at least for me.
Everyone has decisions to make, which may make life better in ways never thought possible.
FilmRap1 May 2010
Warning: Spoilers
For more than 40 years director James Ivory and producer Ismail Merchant have been bringing forth signature films with screenplays written and adapted by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala. Two years after the death of Merchant, the remaining team has created a film worthy of the genre, which took three more years to be released. Every frame is a masterpiece color photograph with period and location magnificently depicted. The story here is about Omar (Omar Metwally) a mid-western university doctoral student who has a grant to write a biography of a Latin American writer who had committed suicide. He takes temporary leave of Deidre (Alexandra Maria Lara), his controlling girl friend to travel to the beautiful Uruguay countryside in order to try to convince the executers of the writer's estate to authorize the biography. He finds the deceased writer's widow (Laura Linnley), the writer's girl friend Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg) and the 8 year old daughter she had with him, the gay brother of the writer (Anthony Hopkins ) along with his lover (Hiroyuki Sanada ) who has been with him since he adopted him at age 15, all living together on a magnificent ranch estate miles from nowhere. The movie becomes a study of the personalities of this group and the dynamics between them. It also follows and explores the emotions of the would be biographer as he rather quickly develops feelings for Adrenia which leaves him with some important choices to make. A very effective ending allows you to come away from the movie realizing that everyone has decisions to make, which may make life better in ways never thought possible.
Marvellous Film
foxy-705-2061176 April 2010
Last night I saw this film for the second time, and it was even better than when I first saw it 4 days ago. I loved everything about it. Laura Linney is amazing, and every member of the cast does a fantastic job. Locations are breathtaking. Screenplay, Music, Acting, Editing.... I can't find a single thing to criticize about this movie.
Laura Linney deserves an Oscar for her performance. Anthony Hopkins gives the kind of performance we are accustomed to seeing from him. Other cast members are less well known, but every character is perfectly cast. Apparently this film will have a very short run in Los Angeles and other cities, so I recommend you don't miss a chance to see it.
Laura Linney deserves an Oscar for her performance. Anthony Hopkins gives the kind of performance we are accustomed to seeing from him. Other cast members are less well known, but every character is perfectly cast. Apparently this film will have a very short run in Los Angeles and other cities, so I recommend you don't miss a chance to see it.
Too genteel, too wandering and ultimately too bland to matter, this literary drama from James Ivory doesn't even come close to the Merchant-Ivory classics
moviexclusive5 September 2011
This adaptation of Peter Cameron's 2002 novel is the first film from director James Ivory (he's 82 this year by the way) after the passing of his longtime producing partner Ismail Merchant. Over the past two decades, the Merchant-Ivory name was a brand of literary cinema in itself, from which acclaimed works such as "The Remains of the Day" and "Howard's End" were spawned.
Unfortunately, this reportedly final film from James ivory will not be remembered in the same light as those aforementioned films- because as much as it tries its best to evoke the same literary feel, this solo venture by James Ivory is too genteel, too wandering, and ultimately too bland to make much of an impact. And that is despite the efforts by a fine cast- the likes of thespian Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and French actress Charlotte Gainsburg.
In adapting Cameron's novel, longtime Merchant-Ivory screenwriter Ruth Prawer Jhabvala keeps her focus on the academic Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally), a University of Kansas English graduate student who journeys down to Uruguay to meet the family of the late minor novelist Jules Gund. Omar wants to write a biography of the late author- and his academic and financial future depend on it- but the family has thus far refused their permission.
Ivory gets the events leading up to Omar's unannounced visit at the Gund estate over and done with quickly, and leaves the rest of the film for his audience to get to know the eccentricities of the Gund family. There, Omar meets Jules' imperious widow, Caroline (Linney), and his mistress Arden (Gainsburg) and her daughter Portia (Ambar Mallman). Not forgetting of course Jules' older brother Adam (Hopkins) and his Japanese lover Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada).
Jhabvala's screenplay allows Omar to have plenty of interactions with each one of the Gund family, but these largely lack much sizzle. The most interesting of these is the tension between Omar and Caroline, the widow bristling with hostility especially when she sees how Arden is taking too quickly to Omar. The romance between Omar and Arden however turns out too nondescript, while Omar's talks with Adam mostly centre on Jules' legacy- an unfinished novel and a mysterious suicide. An accident leads to the arrival of Omar's domineering girlfriend (Alexandra Maria Lara), but even this turn of events doesn't quite set the drama afire.
Neither does the ensemble cast for that matter. Hopkins is good as always, but his role is hardly much of a stretch for him. Ditto for Linney, who gives the film's sharpest performance as the brittle and thorny widow eager to hide some family secrets. Metwally on the other hand is woefully miscast, his genial performance undermining what potential dramatic moments the film has going for it.
Admittedly though there are few- and the fault ultimately lies with director James Ivory's directorial choices. There is little to suggest that we as the audience should care for any of the characters or their dilemmas, which seems trivial and insignificant. The production values here are stellar as with any Ivory film, in particular the evocative cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe ("Talk to Her," "Vicky Cristina Barcelona")- but the storytelling is ultimately what makes this a forgettable entry in the list of Ivory films.
Unfortunately, this reportedly final film from James ivory will not be remembered in the same light as those aforementioned films- because as much as it tries its best to evoke the same literary feel, this solo venture by James Ivory is too genteel, too wandering, and ultimately too bland to make much of an impact. And that is despite the efforts by a fine cast- the likes of thespian Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and French actress Charlotte Gainsburg.
In adapting Cameron's novel, longtime Merchant-Ivory screenwriter Ruth Prawer Jhabvala keeps her focus on the academic Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally), a University of Kansas English graduate student who journeys down to Uruguay to meet the family of the late minor novelist Jules Gund. Omar wants to write a biography of the late author- and his academic and financial future depend on it- but the family has thus far refused their permission.
Ivory gets the events leading up to Omar's unannounced visit at the Gund estate over and done with quickly, and leaves the rest of the film for his audience to get to know the eccentricities of the Gund family. There, Omar meets Jules' imperious widow, Caroline (Linney), and his mistress Arden (Gainsburg) and her daughter Portia (Ambar Mallman). Not forgetting of course Jules' older brother Adam (Hopkins) and his Japanese lover Pete (Hiroyuki Sanada).
Jhabvala's screenplay allows Omar to have plenty of interactions with each one of the Gund family, but these largely lack much sizzle. The most interesting of these is the tension between Omar and Caroline, the widow bristling with hostility especially when she sees how Arden is taking too quickly to Omar. The romance between Omar and Arden however turns out too nondescript, while Omar's talks with Adam mostly centre on Jules' legacy- an unfinished novel and a mysterious suicide. An accident leads to the arrival of Omar's domineering girlfriend (Alexandra Maria Lara), but even this turn of events doesn't quite set the drama afire.
Neither does the ensemble cast for that matter. Hopkins is good as always, but his role is hardly much of a stretch for him. Ditto for Linney, who gives the film's sharpest performance as the brittle and thorny widow eager to hide some family secrets. Metwally on the other hand is woefully miscast, his genial performance undermining what potential dramatic moments the film has going for it.
Admittedly though there are few- and the fault ultimately lies with director James Ivory's directorial choices. There is little to suggest that we as the audience should care for any of the characters or their dilemmas, which seems trivial and insignificant. The production values here are stellar as with any Ivory film, in particular the evocative cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe ("Talk to Her," "Vicky Cristina Barcelona")- but the storytelling is ultimately what makes this a forgettable entry in the list of Ivory films.
- www.moviexclusive.com
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