The Vow (2012)

Artwork for Theatrical Release

It's like watching a film that throughout scratches at greatness, but falls short.  It's still enjoyable, yes, but it most definitely is not The Notebook (2004) and it falls miserably short of being a classic.

Let me get the bad stuff out of the way first, although I must preface by saying that I actually liked the movie.

The costume design or wardrobe person in charge of Channing Tatum should never be hired again, it was by far the most annoying part of the film.  Nothing fit right, and what's worse, it detracted from him, which, might or might not be a good thing for him.

Channing Tatum is no Ryan Gosling [Crazy Stupid Love (2011)] and that's a shame, because that alone could have made the film great, but I guess you need to avoid The Notebook (2004) comparisons as much as possible, what with the memory thing already front and center.  But Channing Tatum lacks the acting breadth to carry a serious Romantic film.  Maybe something more fluffy, but certainly not this.

The script was uneven.  There were times when I loved it, and there were times where I hated it enough to make notes on my notepad.

But that aside, if you are a fan of Rachel McAdams, as yours truly, then definitely watch this film, she is great in it.  When she flirts, she flirts with you, when she acts, she is honest and earnest, and that was a breath of fresh air.

Her climactic scene with Jessica Lange was thoroughly enjoyable.  Like watching two supernovas feeding energy off of each other.  The eye twitches, the hand gestures, the proper eye contact, and the even more proper embarrassment and looking away, it was great.

The camera work was great for a Romantic Drama, and the Color Timing is thought out and perfectly executed.

Watch the movie, just please, don't expect greatness, and be glad that it's not Cafe (2011) or I Hate Valentine's Day (2009).