23 Walks

23 Walks is a heartwarming British romantic drama that explores the intricate complexities of late bloom love against the backdrop of serene English landscapes. Released in 2020, the movie is directed by Paul Morrison and features a robust cast starring Dave Johns, Alison Steadman, Graham Cole, and Bob Goody. Known for their previous acclaimed works, these actors have all brought their incredible talent, making the movie a piece of fine character-driven cinema that highlights the forgotten yet potent essence of mature relationships.

The film revolves around Dave Johns (playing Dave) and Alison Steadman (playing Fern), who are the central characters around whose stories of love, loss, and life the movie is woven. The narrative evolves through '23 walks' they take together with their dogs, exploring their personal journeys and slowly developing a bond that transcends beyond ordinary friendship. These walks, marked by rich dialogues, touching revelations, and evolving perceptions, serve as the milestones in their relationship.

Dave is a retired nurse from Yorkshire, while Fern is a divorced woman living a somewhat isolated life. They meet while walking their dogs in a local park. From the initial awkwardness of two strangers crossing paths, their relationship progresses naturally over shared moments, opening up to each other, and finding solace in each other's company. Their characters are realistic yet layered, enriched with experiences, emotional scars, and a palette of individual personalities. It is on these composed walks that their vulnerabilities are revealed, bringing them closer.

Their dogs, Tilly and Henry, also play significant roles, almost like supporting characters that bring Dave and Fern together and provide a gentle catalyst to their growing relationship. Through their canines, they manage to foster a connection, initially marked by a playful rivalry that later becomes an essential part of their bonding experience.

23 Walks masterfully portrays the turbulence of emotions when love enters life in the twilight years. It brings to the fore the idea that love can strike at any age, it's the connection that truly matters. The struggles associated with starting anew, especially when life has already handed you many hard truths, is poignantly highlighted. The film examines the essence of a relationship that develops deep understanding and companionship rather than fiery passion, perhaps much needed depiction in popular cinema.

The movie's cinematography is remarkable. The stunning landscapes and tranquility of the English countryside and the gritty cityscapes are striking contrasts, playing as beautiful backdrops that symbolize the themes of comfort, disarray, solitude, and companionship. The movie captures the beauty of each of the '23 Walks', effectively spotlighting the changing seasons, reflecting parallels with the evolving relationship between the two central characters.

Besides the emotional depth, the movie is also marked by generous amounts of light-hearted humor and quick wit, most of it led by the amusing dog dynamics and lively dialogue, balancing the film's more serious undertones. Noticeably, the pacing of the film is slow, and it takes its time unwinding the story, reflecting the nature of the relationship it is portraying – unhurried, deep, and meaningful.

The performances by the lead cast, Dave Johns and Alison Steadman, are indeed commendable. They breathe life into their characters and make them truly relatable. Johns' portrayal of the pragmatic yet charming Dave and Steadman's performance as the resilient yet vulnerable Fern create an on-screen chemistry that's not only believable but also engaging.

The film does not shy away from showcasing the complications that come with age and past relationships, nor does it paint an unrealistically rosy picture of love in the later years of life. Instead, it presents a more genuine and balanced representation of emotions and relationships.

23 Walks is a compelling drama that beautifully mixes elements of romance, humor, and pathos. It is a celebration of mature love, human resilience, and life's unpredictability against the canvas of scenic nature and shared silences. It's an ideal watch for those who appreciate insightful and character-driven narratives that tug at the heartstrings while also offering a wholesome cinematic experience.