84 Charing Cross Road (1987)

It's hard to build an entire film around charm, but this is essentially what the makers of 84 Charing Cross Road have done. How well they have succeeded will likely depend upon one's appreciation of -- or tolerance for -- the two characters who make up the core of the film. Epistolary in nature, director David Jones has done an admirable job of opening up the static story, finding ways of framing the constant voice-overs by placing the characters in different settings or situations. Hugh Whitemore's screenplay also helps; while there is still little action, he provides pithy, witty dialogue and delineates two strongly defined characters. Ultimately, of course, the film rises or falls on the actors who portray its characters, and there are no complaints here. Anne Bancroft brings her special brand of spunkiness and feistiness to the role, as well as her ability to twist unsuspected emotions from seemingly neutral sentences. Anthony Hopkins' skill and artistry are given free rein here, resulting in a delightfully understated and extremely effective performance. Although the supporting cast -- especially Judi Dench -- is quite good, it's Bancroft and Hopkins who matter here, and they do not disappoint. Even they, however, are unable to overcome the limitations of the film's basic concept. As a result, Charing Cross fails to totally satisfy, despite its charms. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide