2 minute(s) · November 21, 2024
One Day (2011) is a beautifully shot yet uneven romantic drama that explores two decades of love and friendship, bolstered by heartfelt performances but hindered by pacing issues and predictable storytelling.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING TEXT CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR "ONE DAY (2011)"
Directed by Lone Scherfig and based on David Nicholls' beloved novel, One Day offers a poignant tale of love and friendship spanning two decades. The film follows Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Dexter (Jim Sturgess) as they reconnect on the same day each year, exploring their evolving relationship against the backdrop of life's ups and downs. While beautifully crafted in some respects, the film struggles to fully capture the emotional depth of its source material.
Anne Hathaway in "One Day (2011)" / Image: blogspot.com
"One Day (2011)" Poster
Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess deliver heartfelt performances that lend credibility to Emma and Dexter’s complex bond. Their chemistry feels genuine, and the narrative’s unique structure—checking in on the same date over 20 years—creates moments of both joy and heartbreak. The cinematography is stunning, showcasing gorgeous locales like Edinburgh and Paris, which enrich the film's romantic atmosphere.
Despite its strengths, One Day falters in execution. Hathaway’s attempt at a Yorkshire accent was widely criticized for being inconsistent, distracting from her otherwise strong portrayal of Emma. The story’s pacing feels uneven, and while the emotional moments hit hard, the plot leans too heavily on predictable romantic tropes. Fans of the novel may appreciate its faithfulness to the source, but others may find the film overly melancholic or lacking in originality.
One Day is a film that will appeal to fans of sentimental romantic dramas, but it may not win over those looking for fresh storytelling or tightly crafted character arcs. If you’re in the mood for a tearjerker with beautiful visuals and a bittersweet message, it’s worth a watch.
Rating:
6.5/10
⭐⭐⭐
A touching yet flawed adaptation that struggles to live up to its potential.
Jim Sturgess and Anne Hathaway in "One Day (2011)"
One Day (2011) is streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.