Late Bloomers

Although it's always nice to see a movie aimed at viewers older than 12, Julie Gavras's sputtering dramedy about old-age blues carries limited appeal. Retired London teacher Mary (Isabella Rossellini) is suffering a senior moment in more ways than one, obsessing about her aging face, mind, and body, while not getting much satisfaction from water aerobics or going back to work (where she finds herself the "token" old lady). Her husband, Adam (William Hurt), is a respected architect who, despite his recent lifetime-achievement honors, learns that his firm is in a financial crisis, as big-money contracts start going to brasher and, yes, younger designers. The minimal plotline has Mary and Adam's 30-year marriage growing strained, as he secretly embarks on a scheme to present a radical concept in assisted-living homes, while she becomes flirty with other men. The ultimate message—a bit of clandestine, restorative adultery can do a struggling couple much good—is oh-so-très-European. Even with solid supporting turns by Simon Callow and Joanna Lumley, Late Bloomers is little more than a trifle. Optional. (C. Cassady)