The Sense of an Ending (2017)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  6 / 10

  The Sense of an Ending is a balanced drama regarding lost time and untimely deaths. Before I begin, as with most adaptations I have not read the source material, although I've heard Barnes' novel is tantalisingly thought-provoking. It's also not often that I watch a British indie drama, just because there aren't many being produced. Therefore I'm hoping me watching this will garner some much needed support for our own small budgeted productions. A retired man, Tony, receives a letter entitling him to a diary left for him in a will. The news sends him through a questionably nostalgic journey of his school life and past mistakes, embellishing in the revelation that he has lost precious time. Time. A measurement that never alters, depleting and replenishing life as it continues on without blinking. We all have one life, and it's up to us how we choose to spend each sacred minute. What this film eloquently explores is the act of forgiveness, realising how past mistakes can haunt us from time to time. The narrative is played out as if it were a teen love story, but is shrouded in class and elegance. This could've been a geriatric romance, but the meaningful and enigmatic themes throughout elevates this drama substantially. Broadbent proves he can still lead an entire film with a solid performance. The supporting cast was good as well, although Rampling needed far more screen time given her astronomical talent. It's unfortunate that I felt this film was rather confused. It couldn't determine if it was a mature love story or a contemporary thematic drama, and the problem was the two didn't blend. I was more enthralled by Broadbent's narration and the present story as opposed to the flashback romance which felt slightly generic. The pacing was inconsistent, particularly the second act which ultimately comes to a standstill. I also felt there was a cold barrier around each character, especially Tony, to which I just couldn't connect. It's a well intentioned drama that does convey important themes, but a clinical affair that was missing some much needed warmth.

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