Anything But Love (2003)

Plenty to Like, Plenty to Dislike

The performances transcend the film's tropes, grounding it in characters that feel more complete than this subgenre often produces.

if their story seems completely bonkers, almost like a feverish work of fiction, you ain't heard nothing yet.

The acting in this movie is really good.

I loved this movie. It's sweet, romantic, sentimental, and reminds me of the old-fashioned films that we grew up with. The songs are wonderful and it's a feel-good movie you can watch with your mom, or your grandmother. The shots of New York City are gorgeous; the city never looked so good. You can tell that the filmmaker took extra care in his presentation. Although Andrew McCarthy isn't on screen all that much, he was fun to watch when he does appear. There are so many dark, disturbing films out, that this is truly a breath of fresh air. I'll admit it's a bit of a "chick flick" but also a date movie. Enjoy it for the romance that it has, and the beautiful visuals.

I really enjoyed this film..For me it blended some of my favorite ways to be entertained..Standard Songs, Romance, Humour, and Wonderful, Refreshing Actors who did not distract from the story..The character "Amboise" the restaurant/club manager was hilarious from beginning to end..

It was poorly shot. Looks Like a rush job, last minute casting is obvious. Writing is very weak. Good for stage, not film. I feel bad for Andrew McCarthy. He's a very good actor who has not been getting good roles lately. This role was not for him. Maybe glad it has been picked up yet. On the festival circuit this film shall stay.

There aren't too many films made today that have a timeless quality about them. Standard Time is like a classic standard that brings a truly magical and romantic quality to the present generation. It combines a stylish idealism, which the entire film is held up against, right along side a tangible realism. The story unravels subtly, ebbing throughout the captivating cabaret numbers performed by Isabel Rose. Her voice is beautifully pure and unadulterated like the character she plays. She owns her performance like only a writer could. Andrew McCarthy is back with a matured depth, but retains the charm to complete the ensemble brilliantly. You'll be surprised at how well they work within and around the genre they brought back. This movie has the charm of a 60's Barbra Streisand comedy and the vividness of an Ester Williams set using the latest technology to bring back the brilliance of the look of Technicolor. This is a very special film; as with any good timeless classic, it's relevance will reach far into the future. It's hard to believe it's an indie, let alone the writers and director's very first film!