I watched Safe Haven knowing that Nicholas Sparks wrote the story, and not having read the book. This movie completely exceeded my expectations. As I write this, the tears are drying on my face. I believed the chemistry was there with the actors and the romance had a good build-up (not rushed). I like that the story was easy to follow. The actions scenes were well-directed and realistic. I like how the story incorporates action, suspense, drama, and romance, all in one. What really moved (shocked) me was the ending. It was so beautiful and I just started bawling. It was so moving. As a whole, I really enjoyed this movie.
233 Reviews
Kind of contains spoilers.
ClSnyd27 March 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I really liked this movie despite the fact that the book was so much better. What I didn't like was they didn't explain how abusive her marriage actually was. He wasn't just an alcoholic who got angry and hit her once, he was insane. Some of the reviews say that she should have gotten a divorce but it wasn't that simple, she wasn't allowed to leave the house or speak to anyone, she couldn't have a job or friends or a license. He checked up on her throughout the day to make sure she never left the house and took her everywhere she needed to go. She couldn't have just driven to the courthouse to file divorce papers. Anyways, yes, I liked it but they could have added a little more details in my opinion.
A real surprise and touching ending to this romantic thriller
JohnRayPeterson25 April 2013
Director Lasse Hallström pulls off a surprise ending to this otherwise seemingly ordinary romantic thriller; in doing so, he redeemed what would otherwise have been a movie not worth a mention. Sure, the movie is sweet for the most part and the dramatic moments are nothing to brag about, but Hallström has been hiding the real love story all along; when it's revealed in the last scenes, we ask ourselves, how could I have not seen this and then you melt. But you do have to stick it out to the end. I don't wish to spill the beans so I'll keep mum about it. I understand some viewers are not going to be interested in the movie because of the cast, but the director's following is not without merit; after all he delivered Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, Chocolat and Cider House Rules, and it's his uncanny ability to tell a story like no others is what made me want to watch the movie.
good entertainment, but certainly a chick flick
portsea18 February 2013
I took my girlfriend to see this, mostly as she cant miss a love story film.... she wasn't disappointed with this. She loved every minute of it. As a male, I thought it was a bit wet, but still enjoyed it. Hough was an easy actress to watch, not only pretty, but accomplished at her art. This was seemingly written for her girlish look and persona. The scenery and cinematography were nothing short of amazing... Locations were perfect, id live there in a heartbeat.... Duhamal was frankly excellent in this role too, he played his part perfectly, and was the perfect choice for this film.
The script was given a twist, and I sat through most of the film not quiet sure what was going to happen next, it definitely kept me intrigued, although I found it a little slow at a few points, i still walked away liking the film as a whole.
Definitely worth going to see, certainly on the big screen, as the locations were amazing....
The script was given a twist, and I sat through most of the film not quiet sure what was going to happen next, it definitely kept me intrigued, although I found it a little slow at a few points, i still walked away liking the film as a whole.
Definitely worth going to see, certainly on the big screen, as the locations were amazing....
Amiable but trite
neil-47611 March 2013
Warning: Spoilers
A young woman goes on the run following a violent incident. Changing her hair colour and calling herself Katie, she arrives at a small seaside town where she soon makes friends, including a handsome young man, conveniently widowed with two young children. However, a police officer is on her trail...
What we have here is a romance, cross-pollinated with a mystery about Katie's backstory and a suspense thriller about the police officer who is after her, coupled with a couple of other cross-genre oddments (the young son who can't let go of his mother, will he bond with Katie or reject her, and so on). I am lucky: I have not read the book on which this film is based, nor have I seen Sleeping With The Enemy (on account of my cordial dislike of the vastly overrated Julia Roberts) so, for me, this movie was not totally devoid of surprises. Having said that, I didn't find too much here to make my jaw drop.
The main strength of the film is Julianne Hough as Katie. This is the third film I have seen her in, and she is both easy on the eye and able to project an innate likability. The part of Katie stretches her a little more than Footloose and Rock Of Ages did, and she does well enough. Josh Duhamel as sensitive and hunky widower Alex is sensitive and hunky, David Lyons as nemesis Tierney is satisfactorily over the top in a caricature part, and Mimi Kirkland as moppet Lexie walks away on diminutive legs with every scene she is in.
This is mostly a nice film - overflowing with niceness in fact which, in some quarters, might be regarded as a criticism - leavened with a touch of nastiness. I liked it, but was under no illusions that it was anything other than a potboiler (with a rather daft and unnecessary twist at the end).
What we have here is a romance, cross-pollinated with a mystery about Katie's backstory and a suspense thriller about the police officer who is after her, coupled with a couple of other cross-genre oddments (the young son who can't let go of his mother, will he bond with Katie or reject her, and so on). I am lucky: I have not read the book on which this film is based, nor have I seen Sleeping With The Enemy (on account of my cordial dislike of the vastly overrated Julia Roberts) so, for me, this movie was not totally devoid of surprises. Having said that, I didn't find too much here to make my jaw drop.
The main strength of the film is Julianne Hough as Katie. This is the third film I have seen her in, and she is both easy on the eye and able to project an innate likability. The part of Katie stretches her a little more than Footloose and Rock Of Ages did, and she does well enough. Josh Duhamel as sensitive and hunky widower Alex is sensitive and hunky, David Lyons as nemesis Tierney is satisfactorily over the top in a caricature part, and Mimi Kirkland as moppet Lexie walks away on diminutive legs with every scene she is in.
This is mostly a nice film - overflowing with niceness in fact which, in some quarters, might be regarded as a criticism - leavened with a touch of nastiness. I liked it, but was under no illusions that it was anything other than a potboiler (with a rather daft and unnecessary twist at the end).
More of a thriller then most of Sparks' straight out romances but there's that too
juneebuggy11 July 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this as I do most Nicholas Sparks adaptions. You basically know what your going to get going in so you can't complain too much. There's star crossed romance, a small North Carolina town, a body off water (usually including a boat ride, a rain storm or at least some kissing in the rain), a demented ex-boyfriend or husband, a kid and/or an older grandma or uncle type person. (Red West in this case) -I remember him from 'Roadhouse', he hasn't aged at all.
This story was more of a drama/thriller than most of Sparks' straight out romances and reminded me very much of that Julia Roberts movie 'Sleeping with the Enemy'. The story follows a woman on the run who starts a new life in a small (North Carolina) town and reluctantly falls for a widowed father. It's suspenseful, full of twists and turns, some mystery and a big twist at the end -which after reading the book I'd been curious if they'd even include in the movie because its so random.
I enjoyed both Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel, their romance and chemistry was good, not great or epic (The Notebook) but nice, believable.
I also really enjoyed David Lyons, who takes on the tasty role of the bad guy here. He's the kind of character you love to hate and it was intriguing watching him slowly unravel into an alcoholic haze in his hunt for Katie.
And (despite myself) I liked the ending with the letter "to her." Now that was a real Nicholas Sparks moment. 6/16/15
This story was more of a drama/thriller than most of Sparks' straight out romances and reminded me very much of that Julia Roberts movie 'Sleeping with the Enemy'. The story follows a woman on the run who starts a new life in a small (North Carolina) town and reluctantly falls for a widowed father. It's suspenseful, full of twists and turns, some mystery and a big twist at the end -which after reading the book I'd been curious if they'd even include in the movie because its so random.
I enjoyed both Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel, their romance and chemistry was good, not great or epic (The Notebook) but nice, believable.
I also really enjoyed David Lyons, who takes on the tasty role of the bad guy here. He's the kind of character you love to hate and it was intriguing watching him slowly unravel into an alcoholic haze in his hunt for Katie.
And (despite myself) I liked the ending with the letter "to her." Now that was a real Nicholas Sparks moment. 6/16/15
My Reply To "Flummoxed" Film Critic Richard Roeper
sdavid-4166030 April 2017
Warning: Spoilers
In his review of the film Safe Haven posted on RogerEbert.com (which you can access on IMDb), who knew that a flummoxed Richard Roeper not only likes to play film critic but also ghostbuster? If you don't choose to read his review, Mr. Roeper was "flummoxed" (his word) that the reveal at the end of Safe Haven involved a ghost interacting with a character. He called it: "Bat. Bleep. Crazy."
So here's a news flash for Mr. Roeper: Sometimes in films ghosts interact with people. They're not documentaries, they're movies, and sometimes in movies ghosts are characters too. No one takes them literally. No one was "flummoxed" when Kevin Costner was having a catch with his deceased dad in Field of Dreams.
The ending of Safe Haven was a touching tribute from a deceased wife who wanted her husband to find love; no less touching than the real life wife who wanted the same for her husband and made that her final act on this earth. Her open letter appeared in the March 3, 2017 edition of the New York Times, entitled "You May Want To Marry My Husband." She died ten days later.
Richard Roeper is entitled to his opinions, even stupid ones, but we should all be flummoxed that a website dedicated to the incomparable Roger Ebert actually publishes them.
So here's a news flash for Mr. Roeper: Sometimes in films ghosts interact with people. They're not documentaries, they're movies, and sometimes in movies ghosts are characters too. No one takes them literally. No one was "flummoxed" when Kevin Costner was having a catch with his deceased dad in Field of Dreams.
The ending of Safe Haven was a touching tribute from a deceased wife who wanted her husband to find love; no less touching than the real life wife who wanted the same for her husband and made that her final act on this earth. Her open letter appeared in the March 3, 2017 edition of the New York Times, entitled "You May Want To Marry My Husband." She died ten days later.
Richard Roeper is entitled to his opinions, even stupid ones, but we should all be flummoxed that a website dedicated to the incomparable Roger Ebert actually publishes them.
A Love That Stands The Test of Time!
HollywoodJunket15 February 2013
Warning: Spoilers
As human nature would have it, it's not a rare thing to fall in and out of love a number of times in one person's lifetime. But, then, there are those even more rare cases of finding the one true love that may occur only once in a person's life and lasting even longer than a lifetime. Relativity Media's "Safe Haven", directed by Lasse Hallstrom is a story about one of those such rare cases.
Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, the story opens with a young woman, who simply goes by "Katie", played by Julianne Hough, as she is seen fiercely escaping danger. It's not yet revealed what the circumstances are. She resurfaces in the small, ocean side tourist town of Southport in North Carolina, which is also where the film was shot.
Her small town surroundings and the people within it embrace Katie a lot sooner than she is ready to reciprocate. One such resident being Alex (Josh Duhamel) who is a father of two and a widower of four years loosing his wife to cancer. A very guarded Katie is constantly reminded of her runaway status from, as more of her back-story is revealed, her husband who is a Boston police detective (David Lyons) in charge of locating escaped criminals.
With a small window of opportunity to get to know Alex and his family more, Katie decides to enter their lives as his kids start to grow more fond of her. However, when her husband's detective skills lead him directly to her, a series of events results in a new awakening for Katie and Alex's family alike where new beginnings are a welcome.
The last fifteen minutes of "Safe Haven" includes a real tear-jerker and a surprise ending is revealed. I challenge anyone to have a dry eye after that. Josh Duhamel as "Alex" and Julianne Hough as "Katie" were a perfect fit and carried the storyline perfectly.
Also very impressive performances came from child actors Noah Lomaz as "Josh", Alex's son, and Mimi Kirland as "Lexie", Alex's daughter...Full Review at HollywoodJunket.com -Hollywood Junket
Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, the story opens with a young woman, who simply goes by "Katie", played by Julianne Hough, as she is seen fiercely escaping danger. It's not yet revealed what the circumstances are. She resurfaces in the small, ocean side tourist town of Southport in North Carolina, which is also where the film was shot.
Her small town surroundings and the people within it embrace Katie a lot sooner than she is ready to reciprocate. One such resident being Alex (Josh Duhamel) who is a father of two and a widower of four years loosing his wife to cancer. A very guarded Katie is constantly reminded of her runaway status from, as more of her back-story is revealed, her husband who is a Boston police detective (David Lyons) in charge of locating escaped criminals.
With a small window of opportunity to get to know Alex and his family more, Katie decides to enter their lives as his kids start to grow more fond of her. However, when her husband's detective skills lead him directly to her, a series of events results in a new awakening for Katie and Alex's family alike where new beginnings are a welcome.
The last fifteen minutes of "Safe Haven" includes a real tear-jerker and a surprise ending is revealed. I challenge anyone to have a dry eye after that. Josh Duhamel as "Alex" and Julianne Hough as "Katie" were a perfect fit and carried the storyline perfectly.
Also very impressive performances came from child actors Noah Lomaz as "Josh", Alex's son, and Mimi Kirland as "Lexie", Alex's daughter...Full Review at HollywoodJunket.com -Hollywood Junket
Lasse Hallström delivers once again
DianaMWilliamson25 July 2020
Great suspenseful romance, great casting and beautiful location. Acting is great, characters are great- in the mood for a good romance- Nicolas Sparks is your man. Can't see how anyone can have anything to gripe about in this film.
Missing too many parts that are crucial to the storyline
kasia-cimeries4416 February 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Where to start?... I went to see that movie with uneasy feeling that I'm going to be disappointed and I was unfortunately right. For somebody who didn't read a book it is going to be another love story with a little thriller in it, for me it was a BAD adaptation of very excellent book. I actually knew from the beginning that movies rarely are better than book but some of them at least focus on a important details that are crucial for the storyline. This time like I suspected they missed the most important parts and replaced it with some cheap lovey dovey "I love you" moments. The escape part was showed fast and without pretty much explanation. OK. So we see husband that had too much to drink fighting with his wife, hits her couple of times, throws her on the floor than she grabs the knife and stabs him, after that she runs over to her neighbor and next thing we see is her buying a ticket and getting on the bus and leaving. The same time we can see her husband looking for her, stopping buses running like nothing had happened to him. No stab wounds. Nothing. The book was so much more intense. She was actually planning to escape for almost a year. Stealing money form his wallet, planning everything step by step. It was slow and nerve wracking process that made a reader chew his/her nails. In the movie everything happens so fast you don't even know when it started and when it ended. Also Katie's husband character wasn't showed like I would like it to be presented. He was psychopath, not only an alcoholic. His obsession with Bible and Bible's rules was a crucial point of that story. She didn't run away from abusive alcoholic husband, she run away from sick person. They didn't show it in the movie. They didn't show how twisted his mind was. I think sometimes, that he was the most important character in that story. David Lyons was a perfect for that role, I wish I could see more of his character on the screen that's all. Katie in a movie (payed by Hough) didn't convince me at all. She was looking healthy and pretty like she just came back from vacation, not run away from the hell. Katie in a book was scared, skinny, bitten up and tired. The process of her getting to know Alex was long. She didn't trust anyone for a long time. Josh Duhamel was a good choice in my opinion for Alex's character. He was good looking but not too good looking, he was very easy going, and acted very natural around the kids. But yet as a star of the movie his character was covering more important parts. It was just too much of him in some moments. The other thing they fail to do is to build up Jo character a little bit more. She was Katie's only friend there and they hang out together more often that they show in the movie. The very important conversation between two of them was missing in the movie and I felt like there was unfinished business out there. The turning point was oversimplified. Tierney finally found Katie and asked her to come home with him, when she declined he decided to burn the house down. In the book that process was slow and complex. From the very first time he sees them together to the last moment of his life, reader doesn't know what is going to happen. Why he decided to burn the place down with Katie in it?? Because bible says that when she cheats she will burn in internal flame. That was the reason why he started the fire in the first place. Alex again became a hero saving his daughter from the fire. In the book he didn't show up until everything was pretty much over. It was Katie who fought with Kevin and it was her who saved the kids. I give the movie 3+. If you didn't read the book it's going to be another love story out there. Nothing more, nothing less.
ps. Please excuse my English. I'm from Europe and this is not my native language.
ps. Please excuse my English. I'm from Europe and this is not my native language.
Loved it!
Katie-Quesnell24 February 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I may be partial to the film having waited a long time to see it. As soon as I found out Julianne Hough had been cast (I' a long standing fan from back in her DWTS days!) I knew I just had to see the film! I went out and bought the book and quickly read it in a matter of days.
When I finally saw the film I was not disappointed. Although some features of the book had been changed I felt that the key elements were there. I appreciated the directorial style of Lasse Halstrom.
Julianne Hough, in my biased opinion, was stellar. As a breakthrough in her first serious dramatic role I was impressed. Josh Duhamel as usual is lovely and beautiful to watch on screen. The real scene stealer, however, is young Mimi Kirkland who plays Lexie. Her comedic timing and toothless smile added an adorable element to the film.
The whole film seemed so natural that there was an obvious, stark contrast to the drama and thriller aspect in the end. When Kevin Tierney reaches Katie in Southport the tone of the film changes. You've almost forgotten that you're watching a film, but rather a real relationship be built when suddenly Tierney is there, brooding over the characters.
I loved the film depiction of this novel as well as the acting of Josh, Julianne, Mimi, Cobie Smulders, and Noah Lomax. I highly recommend it and would go so far as to say it's a must see! Of course the romantic comedy fans will eat it up, but the men who are dragged along might enjoy it more than they think!
When I finally saw the film I was not disappointed. Although some features of the book had been changed I felt that the key elements were there. I appreciated the directorial style of Lasse Halstrom.
Julianne Hough, in my biased opinion, was stellar. As a breakthrough in her first serious dramatic role I was impressed. Josh Duhamel as usual is lovely and beautiful to watch on screen. The real scene stealer, however, is young Mimi Kirkland who plays Lexie. Her comedic timing and toothless smile added an adorable element to the film.
The whole film seemed so natural that there was an obvious, stark contrast to the drama and thriller aspect in the end. When Kevin Tierney reaches Katie in Southport the tone of the film changes. You've almost forgotten that you're watching a film, but rather a real relationship be built when suddenly Tierney is there, brooding over the characters.
I loved the film depiction of this novel as well as the acting of Josh, Julianne, Mimi, Cobie Smulders, and Noah Lomax. I highly recommend it and would go so far as to say it's a must see! Of course the romantic comedy fans will eat it up, but the men who are dragged along might enjoy it more than they think!
Very good movie with a great ending
lansdenrs16 February 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Josh Duhamel was awesome in this movie. He played a sweet sensible guy that was perfect for Julianne Hough. This movie had a great plot with good romance combined with a mystery and drama. It was worth every penny I spent on valentines day. The final 10 minutes was probably my favorite part. It had a big twist that got me and has stuck with me since i saw it. The writing was excellent as was the directing. It was one of the better romance movies I have seen in a while. It was a perfect valentine movie. When I went I really didn't think that.
If you are looking for a romantic drama to spend with you wife/husband look no further than Safe Haven.
If you are looking for a romantic drama to spend with you wife/husband look no further than Safe Haven.
Nicholas Sparks at his best ... er, uh, I mean same.
twilliams7616 August 2013
If someone were to tell me that the latest Nicholas Sparks novel-to-a-movie adaptation would be one that starred two ridiculously attractive actors playing characters who almost fall in love when a secret from the past that can keep them apart is revealed nearly thirty minutes before the movie ends ... I would say "No $--t! Have you not been paying attention!?" Anybody who does not reside in a cave would know this.
Safe Haven is yet the latest of Sparks' novels to follow this same "winning" (they continue to be profitable!) formula/pattern and it rather saddens me this is director Lasse Hallstrom's SECOND Sparks film as the (thrice) Oscar-nominated director has made GREAT films in the past such as The Cider House Rules, Chocolat, What's Eating Gilbert Grape and Salmon Fishing on the Yemen (I've also just realized his greatest films have an edible word in the title).
Safe Haven stars Julianne Hough (Rock of Ages) as Katie, a beautiful young woman on the run from her past. Safe Haven also stars Josh Duhamel (New Year's Eve) as Alex, a handsome widower and saintly father raising two young children in a small, coastal North Carolina town.
The two meet soon after her arrival in town and begin a friendship (rather reluctantly on her part) after she meets him at the small convenience store he runs -- his cute daughter runs the cash register! -- as he helps her with an odd assortment of items and he answers some even stranger movie-scripted questions. He even gets her a bicycle with a basket on the front (which she takes as an affront) and he orders her yellow paint. Wh-what? Exactly.
Their entire relationship is contrived in a connect-the-dots Nicholas Sparks pattern and the film's supporting players each have a single purpose for the movie -- her jerk of an ex looking for her (David Lyons - Eat Pray Love), his cop pal who can discover her secret in an instant (Ric Reitz - Flight), his children to either look cute or get into trouble, and her country neighbor giving her relationship advice on Alex (Cobie Smulders - The Avengers).
Hallstrom has made this better than most sappy melodramatic romances (and Hough and Duhamel are both likable-enough stars) but Sparks' over-the-top climatic children-in-peril moments have become eye-rolling. The film is standard Nicholas Sparks malarkey and anybody who has watched the movies based on his work knows they have much in common. This can be good or bad depending upon the person.
Beautiful actors? Check. Beautiful scenery? Check. Romance? Check. Melodrama? Check. More melodrama? Check. A scene in or near the water? Check. A young one in trouble? Check. Good story? ... uh, Bueller?
Safe Haven is yet the latest of Sparks' novels to follow this same "winning" (they continue to be profitable!) formula/pattern and it rather saddens me this is director Lasse Hallstrom's SECOND Sparks film as the (thrice) Oscar-nominated director has made GREAT films in the past such as The Cider House Rules, Chocolat, What's Eating Gilbert Grape and Salmon Fishing on the Yemen (I've also just realized his greatest films have an edible word in the title).
Safe Haven stars Julianne Hough (Rock of Ages) as Katie, a beautiful young woman on the run from her past. Safe Haven also stars Josh Duhamel (New Year's Eve) as Alex, a handsome widower and saintly father raising two young children in a small, coastal North Carolina town.
The two meet soon after her arrival in town and begin a friendship (rather reluctantly on her part) after she meets him at the small convenience store he runs -- his cute daughter runs the cash register! -- as he helps her with an odd assortment of items and he answers some even stranger movie-scripted questions. He even gets her a bicycle with a basket on the front (which she takes as an affront) and he orders her yellow paint. Wh-what? Exactly.
Their entire relationship is contrived in a connect-the-dots Nicholas Sparks pattern and the film's supporting players each have a single purpose for the movie -- her jerk of an ex looking for her (David Lyons - Eat Pray Love), his cop pal who can discover her secret in an instant (Ric Reitz - Flight), his children to either look cute or get into trouble, and her country neighbor giving her relationship advice on Alex (Cobie Smulders - The Avengers).
Hallstrom has made this better than most sappy melodramatic romances (and Hough and Duhamel are both likable-enough stars) but Sparks' over-the-top climatic children-in-peril moments have become eye-rolling. The film is standard Nicholas Sparks malarkey and anybody who has watched the movies based on his work knows they have much in common. This can be good or bad depending upon the person.
Beautiful actors? Check. Beautiful scenery? Check. Romance? Check. Melodrama? Check. More melodrama? Check. A scene in or near the water? Check. A young one in trouble? Check. Good story? ... uh, Bueller?
Good romance with suspense: 7,25
manusanchez9022 April 2013
I will not compare this movie with the novel on which it is based because I have not read it. "Safe haven" is not innovator at all, it is one more romantic drama with a quiet predictable ending, but at the same time, with some mystery and some twists that kept me amused and paying attention during its entire length. It is not as good as "The notebook", but it is better than "Dear John" and "The lucky one", in my opinion. Anyway, these four are very alike to each other and based on the respective novels written by the same author. Lasse Hallstrom proofs again he is an efficient director of dramas (I cannot say versatile, because he has not directed more genres ). He has been able to take advantage of the cast, which is not particularly great, but good enough. The photography is one of the best elements of the movie. It is mainly located in Northern Carolina (in a quiet coastal village) and I really liked the environment. The pace is fluid. It made me pay attention from the beginning. It does not obviously have the same pace that action movies should have. The plot contains just a few good unexpected twists and some flashbacks. The plot is easy to follow and adds no confusion, which is good. The acting is good enough. I am not a fan of any actor from this mo vie, but they all did a decent job and are believable in their respective roles. Josh Dushamel and Julianne Hough are the two leading ones, specially her, who is not famous at all. In conclusion, those who really like this sort of movies will surely enjoy this one even though it is not a top romantic drama. The intrigue and photography are added value. The cast is not great, but good enough. The film is well-paced, but it is not original at all. 7,25.
A Little Bit Bland
rebecca-ry24 March 2013
'Safe Haven' is from the same author as romantic classic 'The Notebook.' 'Safe Haven' is not exactly as generic as 'The Notebook' but it does qualify as pretty boring in terms of cinematic exploration.
Despite the story – on paper – seeming fairly interesting and relatively unique to the romantic genre, the film still manages to bore you for the first hour of it. In fact, the last 30 minutes of the film are sadly the most interesting. Before that we have endless conversations that seem pointless and clichéd, naff romantic gestures and unrealistic characters. Domestic abuse is sadly a very real problem for many but this film somehow makes the issue seem very unrealistic and as something so dramatic it could never happen in real life. Beautiful people deal with their problems in a beautiful, idyllic small town very quickly and very easily, it isn't exactly interesting.
The acting was a lot better than I had expected; Julianne Hough was a bit flat in some scenes but her performance wasn't bad – just not memorable. Josh Duhamel gave a fairly good performance; he was not playing a pretty face with zero background like he has done in other films and he managed to show he can act with at least a little depth. David Lyons gave the best performance in the film but unfortunately had the least amount of screen time. Playing the creepy, alcoholic, abusive husband, he made the final act worth watching and was quite scary.
Overall, the film certainly is not a bad film; it just isn't a very interesting or memorable one. It's full of clichés and there are not many emotional, heart-warming scenes so it is a little bit bland.
Despite the story – on paper – seeming fairly interesting and relatively unique to the romantic genre, the film still manages to bore you for the first hour of it. In fact, the last 30 minutes of the film are sadly the most interesting. Before that we have endless conversations that seem pointless and clichéd, naff romantic gestures and unrealistic characters. Domestic abuse is sadly a very real problem for many but this film somehow makes the issue seem very unrealistic and as something so dramatic it could never happen in real life. Beautiful people deal with their problems in a beautiful, idyllic small town very quickly and very easily, it isn't exactly interesting.
The acting was a lot better than I had expected; Julianne Hough was a bit flat in some scenes but her performance wasn't bad – just not memorable. Josh Duhamel gave a fairly good performance; he was not playing a pretty face with zero background like he has done in other films and he managed to show he can act with at least a little depth. David Lyons gave the best performance in the film but unfortunately had the least amount of screen time. Playing the creepy, alcoholic, abusive husband, he made the final act worth watching and was quite scary.
Overall, the film certainly is not a bad film; it just isn't a very interesting or memorable one. It's full of clichés and there are not many emotional, heart-warming scenes so it is a little bit bland.
We All Need a Safe Haven Sometimes
ksj87021 March 2013
Warning: Spoilers
On a dark, rain-swept night, a young woman named Katie flees from her suburban home and into the arms of a generous neighbor. A few hours later, Katie is boarding a bus headed out of town while a police detective scurries to find her before she can make good her escape. He fails, and soon Katie is headed south, on her way to what she hopes will be a new life. But the past is never far behind and secrets have a way of coming out. Is there a safe haven anywhere in the world for Katie?
Adapted from a novel by bestselling writer Nicholas Sparks, SAFE HAVEN is a story of trust, redemption, and of course, love. The script, which is for the most part well-crafted and deserved credit for avoiding a number of the clichés that often taint romantic dramas, does a good job of establishing a credible cast of characters, especially Katie. Julianne Hough plays the role of the runaway woman with sincerity and passion, and her performance keeps the story grounded. Josh Duhamel is also excellent as Josh, a single father with two small children who is struggling to keep his life together in the wake of his beloved wife's death. Josh is clearly attracted to Katie from their first meeting, but Katie is reluctant to return his attentions. There is a good reason for her initial reticence, though like Josh the viewer remains in the dark early on.
The truth is only slowly revealed, much of it in flashbacks from Katie's nightmares, but meanwhile the cop from the opening scene tirelessly works to pick up her trail. David Lyons is great as the crusading detective, consumed by an almost unnatural passion to find Katie and bring her in. He, too, has secrets. Going into more of the plot would be a disservice.
Despite the straightforward nature of the storyline, there are a number of clever twists and it takes a while for all the characters' backstories to play out. Seeing the numerous plot threads unravel at their own pace and savoring the unexpected turns is a big part of what makes SAFE HAVEN more than your usual romance.
SAFE HAVEN is a terrific date movie. It is first and foremost a love story, but the film treats the subject with more respect than your typical teenage drama. The characters are mostly adults and the themes they must wrestle with are serious ones with no easy answers. In the end, the story affirms the value of trust, home, and family, and that those things are worth fighting for even if it means facing up to your worst fear.
Adapted from a novel by bestselling writer Nicholas Sparks, SAFE HAVEN is a story of trust, redemption, and of course, love. The script, which is for the most part well-crafted and deserved credit for avoiding a number of the clichés that often taint romantic dramas, does a good job of establishing a credible cast of characters, especially Katie. Julianne Hough plays the role of the runaway woman with sincerity and passion, and her performance keeps the story grounded. Josh Duhamel is also excellent as Josh, a single father with two small children who is struggling to keep his life together in the wake of his beloved wife's death. Josh is clearly attracted to Katie from their first meeting, but Katie is reluctant to return his attentions. There is a good reason for her initial reticence, though like Josh the viewer remains in the dark early on.
The truth is only slowly revealed, much of it in flashbacks from Katie's nightmares, but meanwhile the cop from the opening scene tirelessly works to pick up her trail. David Lyons is great as the crusading detective, consumed by an almost unnatural passion to find Katie and bring her in. He, too, has secrets. Going into more of the plot would be a disservice.
Despite the straightforward nature of the storyline, there are a number of clever twists and it takes a while for all the characters' backstories to play out. Seeing the numerous plot threads unravel at their own pace and savoring the unexpected turns is a big part of what makes SAFE HAVEN more than your usual romance.
SAFE HAVEN is a terrific date movie. It is first and foremost a love story, but the film treats the subject with more respect than your typical teenage drama. The characters are mostly adults and the themes they must wrestle with are serious ones with no easy answers. In the end, the story affirms the value of trust, home, and family, and that those things are worth fighting for even if it means facing up to your worst fear.
the ending will blow your mind...good movie but not that well romantic thanks to Lasse Hallström
tristaover14 February 2013
if you are looking for a love movie then you had made the right choice this movie is a simple story yet good story lining not as well as your expectations but you will love it. if your hoping for a second notebook you have to know its not that good...
okay maybe Julianne Hough is not the right actress to be in this role but she did her best and you may like her innocence in her role but i didn't like her so much...
Directed by Lasse Hallström, the movie will teach us that in the darkest hour, love is the only light that shines there in the dark or something like that. An affirming and suspenseful story about a young woman's struggle to love again description will work out just fine...
i don't want to talk so much about the movie go watch it what are you waiting for and maybe you will use some tissues so go for it and have a good time...
its my first review and I'm not good as well in English hope it helps tank you for reading...
okay maybe Julianne Hough is not the right actress to be in this role but she did her best and you may like her innocence in her role but i didn't like her so much...
Directed by Lasse Hallström, the movie will teach us that in the darkest hour, love is the only light that shines there in the dark or something like that. An affirming and suspenseful story about a young woman's struggle to love again description will work out just fine...
i don't want to talk so much about the movie go watch it what are you waiting for and maybe you will use some tissues so go for it and have a good time...
its my first review and I'm not good as well in English hope it helps tank you for reading...
This movie re-Sparks-ed my passion and respect for wood
Duha-maniac734 April 2016
I caught this expertly crafted romantic thriller a few tree rings after it came out (3 to be exact) but this movie has aged better than a Redwood. But it was not a moment too soon.
After years of being a journeyman carpenter I had lost my love- affair with wood. Running my fingers down the factory edge of a plank of birch just didn't send shivers up my spine like it did the first time I got behind a lathe. A friend and colleague sensed my creeping disillusionment with my trade coming on like a vicious root-rot. One day he showed up with a box handcrafted from sandalwood with the words "Safe Haven" precision-engrave using a radial saw on the front. Inside was a Blue Ray of Lasse Hallstrom's visionary adaptation of Nicholas Sparks wood-pulp consuming classic novel.
Since my Koa wood DVD player was infested with termites around the last solstice, I ended up watching this on demand instead and just acted like I used Larry (colleague) copy. Don't tell him. From the first shot of the Carolina pine at the cabin to the master crafted bubinga beams in Josh Duhamel's office, this thing shook the moths off my love of wood faster than a pallet of cedar pellets. By halfway through the second act I was tung-oiling a stool I made during act one. By the time the final credits rolled I was standing in a pile of sawdust looking at the replica I had made of David Lyon's character's wood-bead car seat cover.
I can't recommend this movie enough. Watch it and every day will feel like Arbor Day.
After years of being a journeyman carpenter I had lost my love- affair with wood. Running my fingers down the factory edge of a plank of birch just didn't send shivers up my spine like it did the first time I got behind a lathe. A friend and colleague sensed my creeping disillusionment with my trade coming on like a vicious root-rot. One day he showed up with a box handcrafted from sandalwood with the words "Safe Haven" precision-engrave using a radial saw on the front. Inside was a Blue Ray of Lasse Hallstrom's visionary adaptation of Nicholas Sparks wood-pulp consuming classic novel.
Since my Koa wood DVD player was infested with termites around the last solstice, I ended up watching this on demand instead and just acted like I used Larry (colleague) copy. Don't tell him. From the first shot of the Carolina pine at the cabin to the master crafted bubinga beams in Josh Duhamel's office, this thing shook the moths off my love of wood faster than a pallet of cedar pellets. By halfway through the second act I was tung-oiling a stool I made during act one. By the time the final credits rolled I was standing in a pile of sawdust looking at the replica I had made of David Lyon's character's wood-bead car seat cover.
I can't recommend this movie enough. Watch it and every day will feel like Arbor Day.
It's pretty safe to say, that I like this movie. This movie is my safe haven.
ironhorse_iv23 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Based on the novel from Nicholas Sparks, the best-selling author behind the hit films The Notebook and Dear John, comes an affirming suspenseful story about a young woman's struggle to love again after trying to escape her past in a new life in a new area. Directed by Lasse Hallström, the film follows the story of Katie (Julianne Hough) who just move in a North Carolina town called Southport after frantically being chased down by a Boston Police Officer Det. Kevin Thierney (David Lyons). She becomes friends with her new neighbor, Jo (Cobie Smulders) and also met widower, Alex Wheatley, (Josh Duhamel), the manager of a local convenience store, and his two children, Lexie and Josh (Noah Lomax). Alex immediately takes a liking to this new woman in his life, doing small helpful things, such as leaving an old bike at her house. Sooner than later, both fall in love in a predictable way, until Katie's haunted hidden past comes rushing back to her as Det. Kevin get closer to finding her. Now, both must find a way to overcome this coming threat. The movie has some really good mediocre suspense and intense twists in the plot-line. I love the idea of Det. Kevin Tierney searching for her, because he believes she is a wanted murder. How Jo seems to be hiding something from Katie as well. Still, the potential twists were too predictable to fall for, for the smart audience. Also, the movie still feels a little too safe. It has the same flat formulaic of other Nicholas Sparks, just told better. The best thing about this movie is the likability and chemistry between its main co-stars Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel's characters. I can see them as a couple. The child actors who play Duhamel's kids are terrific even if one of them looks like a young Fred Savage. I have to say the girl that play Lexie (Mimi Kirkland) is an adorable kid with some of the best one-liners of the film. Still, I was a bit tired of the ending canoeing, the beaches with virtually no one around, rusticity of the small town feel, and the laissez faire attitude of everybody that follows these books to movies. If you put on any other Nicolas Spark's novel turn to film with this, you might find yourself, asking yourself. Am I watching the same movie? This is the eighth Sparks novel to get the cinematic treatment and they all mostly look like the same. This movie just stands out more than the others. It's the best one since 2001's Notebook. In my opinion, Safe Haven the book is far superior to the movie. Jo is basically an afterthought. In the book, Jo has more a backstory that explains why she lives in Southport. In the movie, Jo just pops in and out of the story basically whenever it's convenient. Jo is one boring character who has nothing to do, but hang out with Katie. I have to say, give the character some depth. It's like she is 'lifeless'. I can understand taking out the religious elements that were present in the book for the movie to reach a broader audience, but I thought that it gave the story a certain depth and psychotic twist that made the villain seem so much more deviant than he appeared to be in the movie. In the book, Katie was more protected of the kids with all her heart in the face of danger, but in the film, Alex had to protect his children from the villain's actions. I felt bad for Alex and the kids because Katie cause more harm to them than joy most of the like. I wouldn't fell in love with somebody that put that much danger to my children. The only thing I like different about the movie then the book is the first degree murder plot. It add some really need suspense. Still, if you're a wanted fugitive with limited money. I really doubt, you're able to rent a cabin and get a job that easy. Seem kinda unrealistic to me. Without spoiling too much of the movie, give it a watch. It's way better than some other mediocre Lifetime TV Movie of the Week.
Terribly Manipulative & Sappy
larrys315 May 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This latest film from Swedish director Lasse Hallstrom, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, is terribly manipulative and sappy. Additionally, I thought the acting and dialogue were, for the most part, stilted and wooden, with every attempt to pull at your "heartsrings".
In the opening scene, Julianne Hough, who portrays Katy (AKA Erin), flees what appears to be a murder scene. Boarding a bus, she eventually settles in the small town of Southport. In this idyllic town she meets Alex, played by Josh Duhamel, a widower who owns the local general store and lives in town with his two children, Lexie and Josh.
Back in Boston, where Katy fled from, a Detective Tierney is relentlessly trying to locate her, even issuing an APB naming her as a murder suspect. It's only about halfway through the film that we start to find out what's really going on.
We also find out Detective Tierney is a violent, alcoholic abuser who is actually married to Katy. His motive in finding her is to confront her and then bring her back to Boston and naturally abuse her some more. David Lyons, who portrays Tierney is actually fairly credible as the despicable and disturbed Detective.
Of course, by this point, we pretty much know what's in store here. Katy and Alex will fall in love and Detective Tierney will find out where she is and there will be a dramatic conclusion.
One positive in the movie was Mimi Kirkland, as Lexie, Alex's daughter. I thought her precociousness and likability on screen was infectious.
The twist ending (not having read the book) I thought was horribly insulting to the movie viewer and a giant set-up.
Very disappointed in the award winning Hallstrom, who has given us such wonderful films as "My Life as a Dog", "What's Eating Gilbert Grape", and "Chocolat", among others, for giving us this melodrama.
In the opening scene, Julianne Hough, who portrays Katy (AKA Erin), flees what appears to be a murder scene. Boarding a bus, she eventually settles in the small town of Southport. In this idyllic town she meets Alex, played by Josh Duhamel, a widower who owns the local general store and lives in town with his two children, Lexie and Josh.
Back in Boston, where Katy fled from, a Detective Tierney is relentlessly trying to locate her, even issuing an APB naming her as a murder suspect. It's only about halfway through the film that we start to find out what's really going on.
We also find out Detective Tierney is a violent, alcoholic abuser who is actually married to Katy. His motive in finding her is to confront her and then bring her back to Boston and naturally abuse her some more. David Lyons, who portrays Tierney is actually fairly credible as the despicable and disturbed Detective.
Of course, by this point, we pretty much know what's in store here. Katy and Alex will fall in love and Detective Tierney will find out where she is and there will be a dramatic conclusion.
One positive in the movie was Mimi Kirkland, as Lexie, Alex's daughter. I thought her precociousness and likability on screen was infectious.
The twist ending (not having read the book) I thought was horribly insulting to the movie viewer and a giant set-up.
Very disappointed in the award winning Hallstrom, who has given us such wonderful films as "My Life as a Dog", "What's Eating Gilbert Grape", and "Chocolat", among others, for giving us this melodrama.
Exciting, intense
mariopaciuc22 May 2014
With its unique plot, Safe Haven is guaranteed to keep you entertained throughout the film. The plot includes surprising twists which will keep you on your toes. Although the storyline may seem complex and unclear, it is not hard to follow, especially when the characters reveal more information as the film progresses.
Safe Haven features a great mix between romance and suspense. From teenage girls to adult males, it is an entertaining option for a variety of audiences. The romance will keep you emotionally attached while the suspense will want make you stay on your seat. Even with the intensity that comes with the suspense, there is occasional humor to lighten the mood.
The protagonists are likable, and you will surely become attached to them. Whether it is fear and despair or happiness and excitement, you will go on an emotional ride similar to that of the characters. Safe Haven is the film to watch if you are looking for a fun night.
Safe Haven features a great mix between romance and suspense. From teenage girls to adult males, it is an entertaining option for a variety of audiences. The romance will keep you emotionally attached while the suspense will want make you stay on your seat. Even with the intensity that comes with the suspense, there is occasional humor to lighten the mood.
The protagonists are likable, and you will surely become attached to them. Whether it is fear and despair or happiness and excitement, you will go on an emotional ride similar to that of the characters. Safe Haven is the film to watch if you are looking for a fun night.
Why are the pros so daft?
m-torres-61-31963519 March 2015
I just read a few negative professional critics' reviews of this movie, and I'm still wondering why they're so clueless. This is a combination of a damsel in distress story and a fairy tale aimed at female romance readers/viewers and should be evaluated as such, not as a story requiring the utmost in verisimilitude. The earnings for the movie show that it has reached and pleased that kind of audience. If you suspend disbelief, you'll be able to enjoy it and occasionally be moved by it. Some movies are meant for niche entertainment (like this one), and others are designed to reveal important truths about life, history and human nature. It's the old apples and oranges comparison, guys. In reviewing a fairy tale in terms of a serious story, you reveal your misunderstanding of both.
Hard to translate to a movie
davejohnson154 December 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I have read the book as I am a great lover of Nicholas Sparks' stories and consider this book his second best so far - after 'A Walk to Remember'. The book has a very long first half where the two lead characters are developing their relationship. This is fine because Nicolas Sparks makes his characters very three dimensional as he is a very good writer but if you try and put this very important section into a film it can make for a very boring first half. I felt that this was so and my wife also found it very slow even though that part is an essential part of the story. Movies are rarely as good as the books from which they are taken and that is true in this case. I thought that perhaps a little commentary by both characters over the action would have improved it. The important character of Jo is not developed enough either as it makes a very surprising twist at the end of the book. I have the DVD and the book of 'A Walk to Remember' and, again, the book is a lot better but the DVD is also very good. In conclusion I just think that this particular book should not have been made into a movie but he is still my favourite author.
A big No
sejla9023 April 2013
Warning: Spoilers
After watching this movie I just had to write review for the first time. If you have any expectations don't watch this movie. I didn't read the book, but this movie have killed my every wish to do that. It gives you feeling that scenes have been cut off, you gain no familiarity to characters, and they will never let you join the true story. Okay, we have some dark beginning, tormented women, who after 3 days at seaside forgets everything, looks amazing and so quickly falls for a guy that it is funny. I love Josh Duhamel, but that is all I loved about this movie. Everything happening so fast, but yet, making audience bored, well, that's a quality we most certainly look in a movie. I was so disappointed, that only tears coming from me were for my wasted time. I regret watching this "la la la" movie. Guess, Notebook was one of a kind for Sparks, and since then he just gets worse with time. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME.
Well filmed - date/chick flick
starbase2025 March 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I viewed the beautifully filmed movie last night at a friend's home with five other guys. None of them threw even one tomato at the TV. But many of us frequently correctly guessed events throughout the file, including when: the leads would wear revealing and/or no outfits; their first kiss; the BAD GUY would find her and when he would show up. But I incorrectly thought the dark-haired, beach town neighbor lady was a lesbian. We all enjoyed the light weight, date type movie. But I would never pay to watch it.
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