Finding You

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https://www.findingyouthemovie.com/

Date Reviewed: 13/05/2021

‘When no one wants to hear, it’s better to hide. Hide and be angry!” Cathleen Sweeney’s rage against the world and one of the central themes of the film Finding You.

Finding You is one of the ultimate ‘feel good’ films in the same vein as This Beautiful Fantastic and of course, Notting Hill!

The story is deceptively simple but delves deep into the emotions of the actors and in turn, stirs ours. After a less than satisfactory audition at a prestigious New York music conservatory, violinist Finley Sinclair decides to travel to an Irish village to study abroad. At the bead and breakfast run by her host family she meets Beckett Rush, a seemingly arrogant heart-throb movie star who is there to film another instalment of his medieval fantasy-adventure franchise.

As is often the case in this film genre, a romance develops between the pair. Beckett (whose arrogance masks insecurity) takes Finley on a journey of discovery that transforms her life, both romantically and career-wise. Finley in turn encourages Beckett to pursue his true passion. But when pressures on Beckett’s public life threaten to destroy their dreams, Finley must decide what is really important in her life.

Director Brian Baugh has crafted a satisfying film in every way, story/character development and cinematography. His inclusion of Vanessa Redgrave is a masterstroke. Her experience and dignity add an extra touch of class to the piece.

Rose Reid given a multi-layered performance as the central character Finley. The chemistry with her co-star Jedidiah Goodacre is palpable.  The scene with her Irish ‘fiddle’ mentor is a highlight as are her scenes with Redgrave.

Goodacre is the perfect choice for Beckett Rush. He has the looks but also the depth to match Reid. Mainly known for the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Legacy he is now making a name for himself on full length motion pictures. His scenes with Reid are a delight.

Vanessa Redgrave’s Cathleen Sweeney, the embittered nursing home resident is a lesson in acting. She gives us a deceptively one-dimensional character initially and then proceeds to ‘peel away’ the layers. Her revelation scene concerning her relationship with her late husband is pivotal.

Tom Everett Scott’s Montgomery (Beckett’s father) and Katherine McNamara’s Taylor (Beckett’s co-star) add important further depth to the story adding to Beckett’s dilemma of personal goals or public fame.

The remaining supporting cast all deliver strong performances.

Finding You is a love story with a difference and with a lesson for each of us to always be true to ourselves and the ones we love!

Reviewed by Barry Hill