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Initial Thought: After watching the newest release of a Nicholas Sparks adaptation I decided to check out the one that started the trend. It has a pretty good cast so that's always a plus. Let's see what the first had to offer other than it's cast.
Characters/Acting: Not too many people here that I recognize. I do recognize some major people though like Kevin Costner, Robin Wright, Paul Newman, Robbie Coltrane, and a very young Hayden Panettiere. Paul Newman as Dodge is the best part about this. His character is just awesome and priceless. One of his best final performances. Everyone else did alright, but didn't grasp me like he did here.
Story: A woman discovers a tragic love letter in a bottle on a beach, and is determined to track down its author. Sounds like a very simple plot. Knowing the stories of Nicholas Sparks however it will be quite an web of events. The plot here kind of reminds me of a gender reversal version of The Lucky One. I wish she would have told him about the bottle, but hey then where would all the conflict be? For the majority of the film it's the typical romance formula. The last 30 minutes are when it gets really juicy. The ending really pulls your heartstrings.
Directing/Writing: The first movie adapted from Nicholas Sparks. The one that started the trend of his movies. The screenplay was written by Gerald Di Pego who was behind The Forgotten. I didn't really care for that one too much. I have never heard of Luis Mandoki before this film.
Final Thought: This was average until the last quarter kicked it into overdrive. I can see why this started the trend. It's a charming and heart-wrenching film. It isn't perfect by any means. Anyways I recommend seeing what started these adaptations if you have only seen the latter films.
