Small film with little or no following about Angels guiding our Lives, in unexpected ways. Our Boy, (Adam Trese) has been hurt and left at the alter, once bitten twice shy and now can no longer believe in love. So, it is at this point an Angel comes to save him from his doubt and he falls in love with her instead of his true, Earthly intended. Many false starts and broken Hearts later we find things are set to rights with the Angel "dying" leaving him free to discover true love. Very, sweet and easy to watch, a definite date flick, get the popcorn and call your favorite date over for a magical movie! Even if it might be a "chick-flick" she'll be impressed! ****** out of 10 stars.
11 Reviews
Sweet Romance
tomwil12 February 2001
A sweet enjoyable romance with supernatural overtones. I've heard it described as a very good episode of "Touched by an Angel" which is fairly accurate. There are some clunky moments, but overall quite touching and effective. The two lead actresses are especially good.
Tries hard.
JoeytheBrit19 August 2002
Any modern contemporary-set movie featuring a hero in a cowboy hat and a raft of C&W ballads is usually in trouble from the opening credits, and this flick doesn't do much to buck the trend. From the opening scene ( a woman in white strolling through a field of flowers in brilliant sunshine, joined by a cowboy on a white horse...) we are firmly in romantic territory, albeit tinctured with a hint of fantasy.
Haynes' direction is irritating at times. Although he already had three movies under his belt before this effort, with his jarring switch of styles (jump-cutting, hand-held, slo-mo, etc) he gives the impression of an eager young director fresh out of film school, which sits uncomfortably with the sophisticated air he seems, at times, to be striving for. However, there are some good touches in this movie (for some reason, the fat guy biting into an apple in the supermarket then replacing it on the display struck a chord), and some gentle, endearing humour. Nevertheless, watching this movie is a bit like watching a naive sixteen-year-old girl trying to fool you she's really twenty-eight.
Haynes' direction is irritating at times. Although he already had three movies under his belt before this effort, with his jarring switch of styles (jump-cutting, hand-held, slo-mo, etc) he gives the impression of an eager young director fresh out of film school, which sits uncomfortably with the sophisticated air he seems, at times, to be striving for. However, there are some good touches in this movie (for some reason, the fat guy biting into an apple in the supermarket then replacing it on the display struck a chord), and some gentle, endearing humour. Nevertheless, watching this movie is a bit like watching a naive sixteen-year-old girl trying to fool you she's really twenty-eight.
proving people can still date without sex
rmorrow4416 September 2004
What a nice surprise to see Mia Kirshner in a movie where she doesn't take off her clothes or kiss other girls or look anorexic... I think Mia is an amazing actress, and I was surprised by this movie. It's one of those that you see in the video store and say, "I've never heard of that - wonder if it would be worth my time." It's certainly not the best movie I've ever seen, but it was refreshing to watch a love story where the characters didn't have to have sex on their first date to know they were compatible. I liked the story. The angel bit was a little strange, but who hasn't wondered if there are angels among us? This was my introduction to Adam Trese, and I found his character likable and believable. I was annoyed with Radha Mitchell. She kept getting in the way. I suppose she was included so that the movie would be called more than just "Cowboys." Because that might be lame. Anyway, a refreshing change from what Hollywood believes love is all about. Three cheers for Greg Haynes for tackling this project.
Weak
zettaichan12 July 2010
This isn't an awful film, it's just very, very weak. It deserves its obscurity.
Radha Mitchell's character, JoJo, is a total Manic Pixie Dream Girl. She loves to crash weddings and attends one every week! How whimsical and charming! Like most Manic Pixies, JoJo sweeps forcefully into the hero's life and teaches him about life... and himself. There's not a single thing about JoJo or her relationship with Adam Trese that rings true. And most of the first act is given over to this unconvincing character and relationship. (A later revelation about JoJo that explains some of her oddness seems awfully forced.)
When the focus shifts to Trese and Kirshner, things pick up a little, but only a little. To give you an idea of the level of plotting here, Trese and Kirshner meet when a group of threatening guys get pushy with Kirshner and a friend, and Trese steps in and gets beaten up protecting them. It's ridiculously contrived.
And while JoJo is the least believable character, none of the characters seem authentic. Trese is apparently a lawyer who dreams of being a cowboy, but all this seems to mean is that he wears suits at work and cowboy hats in his spare time. Kirshner is cute, but who is she? Who are any of these people? Good romance is about unique relationships between distinctive, believable characters, not 2-dimensional "cowboys" and "angels."
On the plus side, Radha Mitchell and Mia Kirshner both look beautiful. They're not overly glamorized, just healthy and glowing and gorgeous. And the relationship between Trese and Kirshner develops sweetly, if you make it that far. The country music on the soundtrack is pleasant enough, but there's a repeated music cue that rips off the Enigma sound and seems really, really out of place.
I guess if you want a wholesome romance with a focus on weddings rather than cussin' and sexin', maybe this will work for you, but if you like good movies, look somewhere else.
Radha Mitchell's character, JoJo, is a total Manic Pixie Dream Girl. She loves to crash weddings and attends one every week! How whimsical and charming! Like most Manic Pixies, JoJo sweeps forcefully into the hero's life and teaches him about life... and himself. There's not a single thing about JoJo or her relationship with Adam Trese that rings true. And most of the first act is given over to this unconvincing character and relationship. (A later revelation about JoJo that explains some of her oddness seems awfully forced.)
When the focus shifts to Trese and Kirshner, things pick up a little, but only a little. To give you an idea of the level of plotting here, Trese and Kirshner meet when a group of threatening guys get pushy with Kirshner and a friend, and Trese steps in and gets beaten up protecting them. It's ridiculously contrived.
And while JoJo is the least believable character, none of the characters seem authentic. Trese is apparently a lawyer who dreams of being a cowboy, but all this seems to mean is that he wears suits at work and cowboy hats in his spare time. Kirshner is cute, but who is she? Who are any of these people? Good romance is about unique relationships between distinctive, believable characters, not 2-dimensional "cowboys" and "angels."
On the plus side, Radha Mitchell and Mia Kirshner both look beautiful. They're not overly glamorized, just healthy and glowing and gorgeous. And the relationship between Trese and Kirshner develops sweetly, if you make it that far. The country music on the soundtrack is pleasant enough, but there's a repeated music cue that rips off the Enigma sound and seems really, really out of place.
I guess if you want a wholesome romance with a focus on weddings rather than cussin' and sexin', maybe this will work for you, but if you like good movies, look somewhere else.
A cliché movie - but so touching.
zaifrun11 April 2005
This movie is somewhat of a romantic cliché movie, but somehow it really moved me. Everybody has been in and out love again can relate to this movie. It makes you smile and believe there is still hope of finding true love. I especially liked the music in the film - it really goes well with the story. Mia Kirshner plays a really good role - you can't help but like her character. The lead male character is also quite well played and overall the actors are doing a fair job. A nice movie for a rainy Sunday. And don't forget to invite your girlfriend (or future girlfriend!) - she will properly like it if she is the romantic type, I think.
Adam Trese Shines
kevin652716 February 2002
This is a movie surrounding Adam Trese. Seeing this movie predicts a coming shining star. Trese not only looks nice but also acts well. With time and nice opportunities, he will be something. A nice movie to watch. A nice romance comedy to relax.
Totally unexpected gem
eescapers7 March 2012
We thought this movie held a lot more meaning, and was a more complete story, than one would have expected. The DVD version is sparse, has only 2.0 audio, and no sub-titling (though it was easy enough to hear). The theme song by Sasha Lazard, "Angeli" was so beautiful that I got up before the credits had finished and purchased it on iTunes. I first saw this via Netflix but loved it so much I picked it up on Amazon for $10, and it will be watched as one of those we go back to at least once a year.
The two leading ladies were absolute knockouts. I'd recommend this to anyone with a heart.
The two leading ladies were absolute knockouts. I'd recommend this to anyone with a heart.
Angels, the paranormal, and the trials and tribulations of love - what could be better.
sgone303 August 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I first saw this film about 5 years ago and 5 years later I am still fascinated with this film. I know it as 'Kissed By an Angel' here in the UK. It is a Love Story that is told in a different way, mixing the paranormal with the emotions we all go through from getting our hearts broken,to falling in and out of love and the lengths we will go to keep that feeling.
I like the chemistry with the main characters Trese, Mitchell, and Kirshner and the conflict that rages inside Jo Jo the Angel (Mitchell) who knows she must overcome her love for Danny (Trese) so her 'assignment' Candice (Kirshner) can fall in love and live happily ever after with Danny. Danny also loves Jo Jo (Ouch!). But as the story progresses he questions this love (with the help of some paranormal help)and eventually Jo Jo's assignment is back on track.
I love the way the film is made from the soundtrack to the photography. The characters are very believable, made in part by the good acting, and who wouldn't believe Radha Mitchell is an Angel. There are some good lines in the film,and I have to agree I can't explain why some bald men wear pony tails, either! This film is definitely one to curl up to with your wife, girlfriend, partner, and watch to explore the trials and tribulations of finding love (and more importantly keeping it) and perhaps even wonder whether we are being given a helping hand by a higher power. But beware, if you believe in that, Angels aren't perfect either!
I like the chemistry with the main characters Trese, Mitchell, and Kirshner and the conflict that rages inside Jo Jo the Angel (Mitchell) who knows she must overcome her love for Danny (Trese) so her 'assignment' Candice (Kirshner) can fall in love and live happily ever after with Danny. Danny also loves Jo Jo (Ouch!). But as the story progresses he questions this love (with the help of some paranormal help)and eventually Jo Jo's assignment is back on track.
I love the way the film is made from the soundtrack to the photography. The characters are very believable, made in part by the good acting, and who wouldn't believe Radha Mitchell is an Angel. There are some good lines in the film,and I have to agree I can't explain why some bald men wear pony tails, either! This film is definitely one to curl up to with your wife, girlfriend, partner, and watch to explore the trials and tribulations of finding love (and more importantly keeping it) and perhaps even wonder whether we are being given a helping hand by a higher power. But beware, if you believe in that, Angels aren't perfect either!
Heart warming
shiitttykitty27 October 2004
I rented this movie ready to be disappointed as what many other typical Hollywood movies have done. But I was nicely surprised. It is, actually a sweet and heart-warming romantic comedy.
Yes, I know it is a bit unrealistic and cliché but life is already so dark and heavy, why not open our little hearts to embrace a little fantasy and a touch of Heaven? I know in reality I may never find the one. Nevertheless, it's nice to see that others do - even on a screen.
In an age in which violence and horror movies rampant, a film of such touches my heart in its subtle yet powerful ways.
A plea to my own angel, please come unlock my jaded heart.
Yes, I know it is a bit unrealistic and cliché but life is already so dark and heavy, why not open our little hearts to embrace a little fantasy and a touch of Heaven? I know in reality I may never find the one. Nevertheless, it's nice to see that others do - even on a screen.
In an age in which violence and horror movies rampant, a film of such touches my heart in its subtle yet powerful ways.
A plea to my own angel, please come unlock my jaded heart.
Enchanting film
JCR-43 August 2010
I've seen this film several times and it has never failed to move me or hold my interest right to the end. The film starts out with Danny, a lovely guy that has just been ditched by his future wife. In coming to terms with this he meets Jo Jo, a mysterious and attractive woman that takes over his life. Danny is so overwhelmed by her that he follows her on her favourite pastime of attending weddings all over town, uninvited and somehow unnoticed. There is a surreal feel to many of the scenes with the aid of an enigmatic soundtrack. Particularly memorable is a scene where Jo Jo goes to the aid of a bridegroom having doubts and whispers to him some magical words that lift his state of confusion. There's clearly something out of the ordinary about Jo Jo and yet Danny seems too besotted with her to probe into her background. But one day Jo Jo disappears leaving Danny in a bigger muddle than ever. After being knocked-out by some louts outside a bar he is woken by Candice, and on the story goes. The film works thanks to the natural feel to the acting and the clever handling by the director of the paranormal subject matter, i.e. angels. A wonderful idealistic romance that resolves well, but tinged throughout with sadness.
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