Indeed, it was a wonderful life...and death.Every film, in some way, is about life or death. As a society, I think we pay closer attention to the young and turn a blind eye to our elderly and their deaths. EVENING provides us with a realistic portrayal of a woman, Ann Lord, on the brink of death (Vanessa Redgrave), whose memories as a young girl (Claire Danes) fade in and out as she also interacts with her own grown daughters. It is a strong film about and including mothers and daughters. Natasha Richardson (Vanessa's real-life daughter) is Constance, the daughter who has the seemingly ideal life with a husband, children and a dog named spot. Toni Colette plays Nina, the free spirit/black sheep. The memories Ann has as a young woman center around her best friend's wedding. We see two very different paths; one that was expected of a woman in '50s (marriage, teacher or secretary) versus young Ann, an aspiring singer and free spirit. Meryl Streep is the older Lila and her real-life daughter is the younger Lila, Mamie Gummer. This film touched my heart. It reminded me that life is as beautiful as it is painful and nobody has it all figured out thus far. The casting was as perfect as the acting (hail to Glenn Close for one very sensitive scene). I am fond of Claire Danes' work and it is refreshing 
to see her make the move into a more mature role. Her facial expressions show so much without being obvious. It was a beautiful film and I wish it had done better at the theater. Ann says, "There's no such thing as a mistake. You get nervous, but you sing anyways."
to see her make the move into a more mature role. Her facial expressions show so much without being obvious. It was a beautiful film and I wish it had done better at the theater. Ann says, "There's no such thing as a mistake. You get nervous, but you sing anyways."Rating: Excellent film and you might find an appreciation for your mother you never considered.
