One Day (2011) Movie Review: A Touching Story of Love and Life
One Day, directed by Lone Scherfig and based on the novel by David Nicholls, is a 2011 romantic drama that explores the enduring connection between two people over the course of 20 years. Starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, the film chronicles the relationship between Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, capturing the highs and lows of their lives on the same date each year.
Plot Overview
The film follows Emma Morley (Anne Hathaway) and Dexter Mayhew (Jim Sturgess) as they meet on July 15th, 1988, the day of their graduation from university. The story unfolds over two decades, revisiting their lives on the same date each year. Emma and Dexter’s relationship evolves from a one-night stand to a deep and complex connection, with their individual paths diverging and intersecting over the years.
As Emma and Dexter navigate their careers, relationships, and personal growth, the film explores themes of love, friendship, and the passage of time. Their journey reflects the impact of life’s choices and the enduring nature of their bond, despite the challenges and changes they face.
IMDb Rating and Reception
One Day holds an IMDb rating of 7.0/10. The film received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences. While some praised the performances of Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, as well as the emotional depth of the story, others found the film’s pacing and narrative structure less engaging. The film’s ability to evoke a range of emotions and its exploration of a long-term relationship were noted as strengths.
Cast and Performances
Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess deliver strong performances as Emma and Dexter. Hathaway portrays Emma with a blend of vulnerability and determination, capturing her character’s growth and resilience over the years. Sturgess’s portrayal of Dexter reflects his character’s charm and complexity, effectively conveying the evolution of his personality and his relationship with Emma.
The supporting cast includes actors such as Patricia Clarkson, who plays Dexter’s mother, and Ken Stott, who plays Emma’s father. Their performances contribute to the film’s exploration of family dynamics and the impact of relationships on the main characters.
Themes and Analysis
Love and Relationships: At the heart of One Day is the exploration of love and the complexities of long-term relationships. The film examines how relationships evolve over time and the impact of personal growth and life changes on romantic connections.
Time and Life Choices: The film’s structure, revisiting Emma and Dexter’s lives on the same date each year, emphasizes the passage of time and the influence of life choices. It highlights how decisions and experiences shape individuals and their relationships.
Friendship and Personal Growth: One Day also explores themes of friendship and personal development. The film shows how Emma and Dexter support each other through various challenges and how their friendship contributes to their personal growth.
Direction and Cinematography
Lone Scherfig’s direction brings emotional depth and sensitivity to the film, effectively capturing the nuances of Emma and Dexter’s relationship. Scherfig’s approach ensures that the film remains focused on the characters’ emotional journeys and the impact of their experiences.
The cinematography by Danny Cohen complements Scherfig’s direction, using a combination of intimate and sweeping visuals to enhance the film’s emotional resonance. The cinematography captures the changing landscapes of Emma and Dexter’s lives, contributing to the film’s portrayal of time and personal growth.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
One Day has contributed to discussions about romantic dramas and the portrayal of long-term relationships in film. The film’s exploration of love, time, and personal growth has resonated with audiences and sparked conversations about the nature of enduring connections.
The film’s adaptation of David Nicholls’s novel has also highlighted the challenges and rewards of translating literary works into film, showcasing the complexities of capturing a long-term relationship on screen.
Streaming Availability
As of 2024, One Day is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It can also be rented or purchased through digital services like Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu, providing viewers with convenient access to this heartfelt romantic drama.
Conclusion
One Day is a touching and evocative film that offers a poignant exploration of love, life, and the passage of time. With strong performances from Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, Lone Scherfig’s effective direction, and its exploration of enduring relationships, the film provides an emotional and thought-provoking experience. For fans of romantic dramas and those interested in stories about long-term connections and personal growth, One Day is a compelling watch, celebrating the complexities and beauty of lasting relationships.
