Old Fashioned

Old Fashioned is a romantic drama film released in 2014, directed and written by Rik Swartzwelder, starring Elizabeth Roberts, Rik Swartzwelder, and LeJon Woods. This film brings its audience a heartfelt exploration of love and relationships that goes beyond the conventional sexy, glamorous aspects of romance and delves deep into the intricacies involved in forming and maintaining a meaningful connection between two individuals.

The main storyline revolves around Clay Walsh, an antique shop owner played by Rik Swartzwelder. Clay is a former frat boy who, after a life-altering encounter, leaves behind his reckless, indulgent lifestyle in favor of following a more moral and religious path. However, Clay has taken his newfound convictions to such an extent that he has adopted an old-fashioned approach towards romance and abides by a rather unconventional dating ethic. He believes in courtship, treating women with utmost respect and honour, refraining from physical intimacy until marriage, and not being alone in the same room with any woman he's not married to.

Enter Amber Hewson, a free-spirited and vivacious woman portrayed by Elizabeth Roberts. Amber, escaping from a failed relationship and looking for a fresh start, moves into the apartment above Clay's antique shop. Initially, she views Clay’s courtly behaviour and old-fashioned approach to love as intriguingly odd. But with time, as she gets to know Clay better, she finds herself remarkably drawn to his chivalry and respectful attitude, which starkly contrasts the aggressive and exploitative treatment she had previously encountered.

In this fascinating study of opposites, the film revolves around Clay and Amber's charming journey towards love as they navigate their differences, personal history, moral values, and fears. Their budding relationship explores the possibility of a higher ideal in romantic love – a patient, respectful, and spiritual endeavor that takes precedence over the instant gratification that shapes modern-day relationships.

LeJon Woods portrays the character of David, a close friend of Clay and a secondary voice throughout the film that subtly provides a more contemporary, albeit not too dissenting perspective on relationships. David's character, with his steady humour and frank wisdom, adds balance and intrigue to the narrative.

Set in a small Midwestern town, Old Fashioned provides beautiful, quaint, and pictorial backdrops. The film splendidly captures the charm of small-town life with its close-knit community, slower pace, and pristine environment. Moreover, the antique shop, with its old-fashioned items, serves as a metaphorical background to the old-world charm and conservative attitudes exhibited by Clay. The cinematography and direction give the scenes a lush and evocative appeal, identifying as visual poetry and intensifying the depth of emotions being portrayed.

The narrative of Old Fashioned is calibrated with contemplation and reflection, which offers an engaging exploration of what it means to truly love and to be loved. It is not an orthodox love story, but a tale that encourages viewers to re-evaluate their views on love, respect, and sacrifice. The script intelligently weaves a story of redemption, faith, and patience into a mainstream genre, all the while avoiding any hint of preachiness.

The performances by the lead actors, Rik Swartzwelder and Elizabeth Roberts, are praiseworthy. They provide a soulful portrayal of their respective characters that makes the audience empathize with them. Their exceptional chemistry is what ultimately brings the seemingly disjointed pieces of different worlds together.

Old Fashioned has a unique narrative voice, one that is subtle yet impactful, and filled with innocence. It provides an opportunity for its audience to self-reflect on their personal beliefs about love and life. The movie boldly treads on unexplored areas in the realm of romance, offering a nuanced, thought-provoking exploration of the subject. Managing to keep theatrics to a minimum, Old Fashioned offers a profound, deeply touching yet entertaining sojourn into the world of old school love and courtship.

In conclusion, Old Fashioned is much more than a love story; it's a cinematic invitation to tap into the profound and spiritual aspects of love and rediscover its beauty in its purest, most authentic form. It leaves a heartwarming imprint on the viewers, gently nudging them towards introspection about the inherent meaning of love and the old-fashioned values of courtship, respect, and devotion.