The Bridges Of Madison County [1995] [DVD]

Based on the famous but not all that great book by Robert James Waller- Bridges Of Madison County is a slow burning tale of a love that a small town cannot accept. But one which keeps on burning long after the principal characters have died.

Francesca Johnson (Meryl Streep) is an Italian American housewife. Her life is uneventful. She cleans, cooks and reads but wants more from life. Her passions are awakened when her husband and two children go away on a short holiday. Robert Kincaid (Clint Eastwood) an enigmatic photographer from National Geographic magazine pulls up outside her house asking for directions. From that point on Francesca discovers her desire for life and unearths feelings that she never knew she had.

The film then explores the dilemma for both characters. Over four days Francesca and Robert embark on a passionate affair. She is attracted to his lust for life and the fact that he has travelled the world. He is attracted to Francesca's worldly mind and the fact that she seems to have so much going for her beneath the fascade of household duties and her overall aim to please her family.

Still awake? Well, although the film may not sound emotionally involving- believe you me it truly is. Meryl Streep brings emotion, depth and a sense of reality to a very challenging role. Francesca has a great sense of humour which Robert uncovers. She also has an amazing sense of loyalty which is tested to the limits as the affair becomes more than a fling. Streep offers the audience a sympathetic portrayal of a woman who deserves a second chance at love. Clint Eastwood again immerses himself into the role of Robert. You are convinced of the chemistry between the two the leads and this is a testament to their awesome talents. All the more extraordinary when you realise that Eastwood directed the film also.

The sheer contrast between Iowa and the weird and wonderful places that Robert has visited are superbly evoked through the power of dialogue rather than visually. This is a film where the slightest movement from each character displays the power of body language. There is a delightful scene where Francesca is laughing at on of Robert's tales- kicking her legs in the air as she smiles. This effectively displays how isolated Francesca has felt over the years. She had clearly lost the power to laugh until now.

As the plot develops it is clear that Francesca has a choice. Does she stay in the marriage that has made her so unhappy? Or does she leave with Robert for a new life? Her home life may be unhappy but she has stability. If she leaves with Robert - he is a loose cannon who may not settle down immediately. The choice is hers. But you will find yourself very involved and half making the decision for her!

The last 15 minutes of this film are absolutely heart breaking. Years after the affair - passions are reawakened and the results leave a devasting blow for Francesca. Meryl Streep manages to make you weep in the final scenes through her silent determination not to shed any tears. When she does let go- the urge for you to follow suit is out of your control.

I have seen many movies. But never have I found one as moving as Bridges Of Madison County. It delivers a simple tale of two characters who deserve each other but because of small town attitudes and family commitments face a dilemma stronger then both of them are willing to admit.

If you fancy an emotional night in- draw the curtains, chill a bottle of wine, get plenty of chocolate and watch in awe as these two amazing actors break your heart in two with their once in a lifetime performances. You will not regret it.