I was expecting a ho-hum story but instead I found myself pleasantly involved with the characters, especially Eric Stoltz, who wasn't a lawyer or a plumber, but a male nurse. This could have been very predictable but it wasn't, and I think that's why I enjoyed the story so much. It was great to see Maureen O'Hara, who I might add looks very pretty for her age. Overall this was a very touching movie.
13 Reviews
lovely Hallmark type of film
blanche-226 November 2005
I caught this movie on Lifetime, but it had the Hallmark network feel to it. Sometimes this type of film can be overly sentimental, but I found this one to be wonderful as it emphasized the importance of taking time to love one another. Maureen O'Hara, at 80-something and looking great, plays a schoolteacher who becomes involved in the life of a former student and his wife. As a woman whose great love ended before the relationship could fully develop, she imparts what she has learned to them about what's really important in this world, and what really stays with those we leave behind when we go into the next one.
O'Hara is really inspirational. Her voice and acting are strong and her no-nonsense portrayal keeps "The Last Dance" from being cloying in any way. You really grow to love this woman and all she stands for. The flashback scenes are well cast.
A nice movie to catch, especially around the holidays.
O'Hara is really inspirational. Her voice and acting are strong and her no-nonsense portrayal keeps "The Last Dance" from being cloying in any way. You really grow to love this woman and all she stands for. The flashback scenes are well cast.
A nice movie to catch, especially around the holidays.
Endearing through its simple, uplifting values
JuguAbraham22 June 2002
It's an ode for good teachers! It's a film that asks you to slow down and inhale the best scents of life's memories quoting Cicero's line about actors leaving the stage quietly after achieving their best! It's a film that brings to mind Mazursky's "Harry and Tonto" and Bruce Beresford's "Tender Mercies".
The story is great and performances real. Maureen O'Hara in her eighties is really wonderful to look at (compare her withered hands to her great face) and to hear. Her enunciation of spoken English is a treat for the ears.
The film is more of a play on film but the editing is so smooth that you feel one scene weaves in to the next. The film does not stun you but endears you psychologically. The film involved the work of three writers at three stages. Probably Beth Polson had much to do with making the story good for cinema, may be it was Dalene Young. The film is great because of the contribution of three good writers, a charming Maureen O'Hara and fine editing. The direction of Kevin Dowling and the cinematography of Larry Reibman, though not outstanding, was above average.
The story is great and performances real. Maureen O'Hara in her eighties is really wonderful to look at (compare her withered hands to her great face) and to hear. Her enunciation of spoken English is a treat for the ears.
The film is more of a play on film but the editing is so smooth that you feel one scene weaves in to the next. The film does not stun you but endears you psychologically. The film involved the work of three writers at three stages. Probably Beth Polson had much to do with making the story good for cinema, may be it was Dalene Young. The film is great because of the contribution of three good writers, a charming Maureen O'Hara and fine editing. The direction of Kevin Dowling and the cinematography of Larry Reibman, though not outstanding, was above average.
A quiet celebration of life and slowing down to live life
dan_dassow11 November 2000
Maureen O'Hara gives a quiet, confident and masterful performance as a retired schoolteacher, Helen Parker. We gradually learn about Helen Parker's past as she become reacquainted with one of her former students, Todd Cope. Todd Cope, Todd Cope's family, and we discover the importance of not getting caught up with the details of life and to slow down to appreciate what life has to offer.
A Perfect Movie
Brooks-1730 October 2000
In this day of fake movies, films dripping with 'Hollywood sauce', violence, etc., I found this film to be quite refreshing. Creators of heart-felt films tend to make them extra-sappy, which also seems to defeat the purpose (at least for me). This movie avoided all these 'traditional' pitfalls. "The Last Dance" felt real to me...not far-fetched. It was simple and to the point. It reflected on things that really mean something on this planet; there was no wasting time on silliness. To top it off, the ending had a nice metaphysical touch (always scoring big points with me). Yes, you really can see good films without having to pay for cable TV. They may not come around all that often, yet the occasional meaningful movie will stick with you. Sometimes less is more.
Ex-high school teacher teaches her ex-student value of life.
dee4j31 October 2000
Todd is a harried hospital nurse struggling to balance his hectic work and family lives, when he has a chance contact with an elderly patient: his high school Latin teacher.
Despite the untimely departure of her husband in her twenties, she developed a love for life and appreciation of friendship that she finds she must teach him. Drawing his wife and children into her life, she helps him achieve a better understanding of the essence of his existence, as she must resolve the final details of her own. A poignant, compelling tale, sad yet upbeat.
Despite the untimely departure of her husband in her twenties, she developed a love for life and appreciation of friendship that she finds she must teach him. Drawing his wife and children into her life, she helps him achieve a better understanding of the essence of his existence, as she must resolve the final details of her own. A poignant, compelling tale, sad yet upbeat.
I love Maureen O'Hara
irishcaligurl4815 April 2007
The style of Maureen O'Hara is unmatched,even today among the best in the business. and there are so many very talented people in the industry. Her classic beauty & comedic humor always has set her apart from others. The Irish temperament,at times,thick accent,especially when angered, her natural beauty, are what set her apart from other women of her generation. She is of a timeless beauty that is so rare these days. I'll never forget her in "MaClintock". I loved that movie so much in my childhood, I couldn't wait for it to come out so I could purchase it,myself.Then, it came out on DVD. That did it. I bought it as a collector's edition. We watch it often. This world has been a much better, enjoyable world with her in it. I am of Irish descent myself,& my family is from Dublin,Ireland, where Ms. O'Hara is from. Though, I've never been, I will always call Ireland the Home of My family. Thank You Maureen O'Hara for all the lovely memories.
The Last Dance
gilturk9 January 2012
This is an awesome movie. What a way for Maureen O'Hara to end her film career with this glowing, enchanting and beautifully haunting story.... Albeit this 'made for TV' effort is worthy of high praise, Australian Kevin Dowling's direction is outstanding as are all portrayals. (Check out another of his gems: 'The Sum Of Us'). The story, as reviewed by other contributors, is believable, has a moral tone that makes it perfect for younger folk. The theme demands special mention as many viewers will be in or close to the senior age level: How to accept that there is a proper time to dispose of one's lifelong possessions and pass them on to others who would not only value them, but extend their lifespan, does offer excellent advice.. City dumps are already overloaded!. I was fortunate enough to have recorded this movie on VHS tape at the time CBS aired it in 2000. On the evening prior to it's telecast, O'Hara was the special guest on Larry King Live. Again, just by chance, I was able to preserve this remarkable interview on VHS tape. O'Hara at 80 is full of life, humor and has definite perspectives on her life, film career and the male actors she starred with. Both presentations are part of my extensive collection of 'treasures' now virtually impossible to find and buy. Anyone interested? Contact me at gilturk@shaw.ca ( In Canada) .Thanks for reading.
thoughtful respectful tribute to growing old
guilfisher-118 January 2007
This 2000 TV movie has many things going for it. First off the legendary Maureen O'Hara, in her 80s, and looking as spectacular as she did in her 20s and 30s and 40s. Who can forget HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY, FOXES OF HARROW, LONG GRAY LINE, THE QUIET MAN, THE BLACK SWAN and those endearing John Ford films with her and her co-star John Wayne?
She sometimes was so incredibly beautiful you forgot that she could also act. Not to be outdone by The Duke, she held her own. In this sweet story she shows another side of her beauty; the simplicity of just being a woman. With elegance and without effort she radiates even the small TV screen. Those eyes! Her perfect diction and faded beauty enhance the performance. You can't stop watching her.
Not to be pushed away, there is also the quiet and thoughtful performance of Eric Stolz, who I have grown to respect over the years his body of work. I won't belabor the story as other critics have mentioned that, but I did want to pay respect to the actors and to the writers, namely, Todd F. Cope, Beth Polson and Dalene Young, who wrote the perfect vehicle for their star. And thanks Kevin Dowling for all those O'Hara closeups. Wow!
She sometimes was so incredibly beautiful you forgot that she could also act. Not to be outdone by The Duke, she held her own. In this sweet story she shows another side of her beauty; the simplicity of just being a woman. With elegance and without effort she radiates even the small TV screen. Those eyes! Her perfect diction and faded beauty enhance the performance. You can't stop watching her.
Not to be pushed away, there is also the quiet and thoughtful performance of Eric Stolz, who I have grown to respect over the years his body of work. I won't belabor the story as other critics have mentioned that, but I did want to pay respect to the actors and to the writers, namely, Todd F. Cope, Beth Polson and Dalene Young, who wrote the perfect vehicle for their star. And thanks Kevin Dowling for all those O'Hara closeups. Wow!
Speaking of aging spectacularly
1726820 October 2006
Maureen O'Hara was one of the most spectacular beauties in Hollywood history. When she made "The Last Dance," she was 82--and still a stunning woman. Because many of her films were action films and westerns, it's easy to forget that O'Hara was also an excellent actress. Here she plays a retired Latin teacher--yes, Latin was once taught in public schools, folks--who reconnects with a former student who is now a male nurse. The plot is reminiscent of "Good Morning, Miss Dove," with Jennifer Jones, another beauty who has aged well.
The former student keeps an eye on the teacher when she leaves the hospital, and soon his family (wife and two children) becomes involved as well. The plot is interesting, and the movie is well-written and very well-acted by the cast. What could easily slide into bathos is genuinely moving as the film gradually reveals via well-integrated flashbacks the teacher's life, past as well as present. A bus trip and a day at the beach are extremely well-done.
"The Last Dance" is one of those films that really has to be seen to be appreciated; it's very quietly done but beautifully realized. When you watch O'Hara, think about what most of the current crop of "actresses" will look like and what their performances will be like when they are in their eighties--if any of them manage to maintain a career past the age of thirty.
The former student keeps an eye on the teacher when she leaves the hospital, and soon his family (wife and two children) becomes involved as well. The plot is interesting, and the movie is well-written and very well-acted by the cast. What could easily slide into bathos is genuinely moving as the film gradually reveals via well-integrated flashbacks the teacher's life, past as well as present. A bus trip and a day at the beach are extremely well-done.
"The Last Dance" is one of those films that really has to be seen to be appreciated; it's very quietly done but beautifully realized. When you watch O'Hara, think about what most of the current crop of "actresses" will look like and what their performances will be like when they are in their eighties--if any of them manage to maintain a career past the age of thirty.
A Reminder
walkbyfaith-0450116 October 2020
This movie is a true gem and a reminder to give people their praise and flowers while they are alive to enjoy them! I've always loved Maureen O'hara and this is just a reminder of her great contribution to the film industry!
Incredible story about life's last moments
bellino-angelo20141 June 2023
I have heard about THE LAST DANCE since at least 2015 (when Maureen O'Hara died) because it's her last movie, and considering it stars Eric Stoltz and I hope one day to finish all his movies, last March I finally saw it and while it made me feel my heart touched, I loved it more than I expected.
Todd Cope (Stoltz) is a nurse that works the night shift and has often problems in keeping his family life perfect considering his job. One night, tho, he has a unusual patient to care for: her former high school literature teacher Helen Parker (O'Hara) that is frail and feels that she hasn't that much time left. Helen gradually becomes smitten with Todd and more the time passes, Todd introduces her to his family and makes her appreciate the small things of life. In particular, Helen is obsessed by the ghost of her husband that died young while serving and goes to the beach where they spend a day together: Todd will take care of her and just before Helen passes away Todd enters her room and sees Helen's younger version dancing with her husband... the metaphor that she is finally reunited with her husband.
The acting was phenomenal by both the leads. Stoltz (who has a reputation of having made lots of light or low scored movies) was great as a nurse that has the chance of assisting his former teacher, and Maureen O'Hara in her final movie gives one of her greatest performances of her career as a woman that despite she hasn't no more time to live does her best of living her last days in the best way possible with lots of help from Stoltz, and the ending was beyond touching.
Overall, a TV movie to be seen at least once for the acting and the subject and despite its seriousness there was one funny anecdote I want to report: when O'Hara is on the bus she notices two young men starting a fight and after the bus driver complains she replies 'See what happens if you leave school?'. My mom (a teacher) who heard it from the other room agreed a lot.
Todd Cope (Stoltz) is a nurse that works the night shift and has often problems in keeping his family life perfect considering his job. One night, tho, he has a unusual patient to care for: her former high school literature teacher Helen Parker (O'Hara) that is frail and feels that she hasn't that much time left. Helen gradually becomes smitten with Todd and more the time passes, Todd introduces her to his family and makes her appreciate the small things of life. In particular, Helen is obsessed by the ghost of her husband that died young while serving and goes to the beach where they spend a day together: Todd will take care of her and just before Helen passes away Todd enters her room and sees Helen's younger version dancing with her husband... the metaphor that she is finally reunited with her husband.
The acting was phenomenal by both the leads. Stoltz (who has a reputation of having made lots of light or low scored movies) was great as a nurse that has the chance of assisting his former teacher, and Maureen O'Hara in her final movie gives one of her greatest performances of her career as a woman that despite she hasn't no more time to live does her best of living her last days in the best way possible with lots of help from Stoltz, and the ending was beyond touching.
Overall, a TV movie to be seen at least once for the acting and the subject and despite its seriousness there was one funny anecdote I want to report: when O'Hara is on the bus she notices two young men starting a fight and after the bus driver complains she replies 'See what happens if you leave school?'. My mom (a teacher) who heard it from the other room agreed a lot.
Charming and schmaltzy
planktonrules12 August 2023
"The Last Dance" is the last time Maureen O'Hara appeared as an actress. Despite this, she lived another 15 years and died a very elderly lady.
In story, O'Hara plays a retired Latin teacher and when she goes to the hospital for some heart trouble, her nurse (Eric Stoltz) recognizes her as his high school teacher. He really liked her and for most of the rest of the story, he and his family get close to this lady...a lovely woman without any family.
The story is all about life...and death. Because of this, it's a bit tough to watch and you might want to have some Kleenex handy. But despite this and a bit of schmaltz, it's well worth seeing because it's written and acted so well. A truly lovely performance and a nice way for O'Hara to cap off her long career.
In story, O'Hara plays a retired Latin teacher and when she goes to the hospital for some heart trouble, her nurse (Eric Stoltz) recognizes her as his high school teacher. He really liked her and for most of the rest of the story, he and his family get close to this lady...a lovely woman without any family.
The story is all about life...and death. Because of this, it's a bit tough to watch and you might want to have some Kleenex handy. But despite this and a bit of schmaltz, it's well worth seeing because it's written and acted so well. A truly lovely performance and a nice way for O'Hara to cap off her long career.
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