Quartile rating: 9.5/10 · 2 ratings
An epic love story centered around an older man who reads aloud to a woman with Alzheimer's. From a faded notebook, the old man's words bring to life the story about a couple who is separated by World War II, and is then passionately reunited, seven years later, after they have taken different paths.
The Notebook is a competent, emotionally effective romantic drama that delivers exactly what its audience wants but offers little that is genuinely distinctive. The plot follows a well-worn star-crossed lovers arc with the framing device of Alzheimer's adding poignancy but not originality. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams have undeniable chemistry and deliver solid performances, though the supporting cast is underutilized. Cinematography is pleasant and suitably golden-hued but unremarkable. The film's conception is largely by-the-numbers Nicholas Sparks adaptation — sentimental, formulaic, and derivative of countless other weepies — earning a low Novelty score. The ending is affecting and lands emotionally, though it telegraphs itself well in advance.