Based on the best-selling novel by author Nicholas Sparks, “The Notebook” is a romantic drama that follows the captivating events in the inspirational love story of quiet North Carolina country boy Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and sheltered debutante Allie Nelson
Based on the best-selling novel by author Nicholas Sparks, “The Notebook” is a romantic drama that follows the captivating events in the inspirational love story of quiet North Carolina country boy Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and sheltered debutante Allie Nelson (Rachel McAdams).
Guys be warned — this is strictly a “chick flick,” but a little hint: if you want to show your girlfriend that you do have a sensitive side, bring a box of Kleenex and treat her to this movie.
The story focuses in and out on two old fogies in a care home — a woman (Gena Rowlands) with a severe case of Alzheimer’s and a man (James Garner) who reads her Noah and Allie’s story from a notebook.
From the moment Noah first laid his eyes on Allie, he knew he was destined to be with her, but she wanted nothing to do with him.
Determined to win her heart, he risks his life hanging from the top of a Ferris Wheel to persuade her to go out with him (in my opinion: borderline psycho, but romantically heroic just the same).
After resorting to charismatic begging, Noah’s persistence finally pays off and Allie agrees to go out with him.
One thing leads to another and soon the two fall madly in love over the course of the summer, much to the discontent to her millionaire parents who tear them apart, sending Allie to college.
Allie becomes engaged to a handsome and wealthy guy named Lon (James Marsden), but after seven years of separation, she makes a second appearance in Noah’s life — and spends a few days and a few nights (wink wink), reminiscing about old times.
This was the best romantic film I’ve seen. I cried and cried (and laughed a few times) from the first 15 minutes of the movie until the end.
The sweetness and innocence of their relationship reminded me of my own real-life romance; and the aspect of separation due to college (less than a year away), made the tears flow faster.
Although the movie is one big tear-fest, it is sprinkled with humor and stunning imagery which will be a relief to all of the guys who heed my advice.
Will Allie chose her lost love, or live out everyone’s expectations and marry Lon? Find out for yourself! º The Notebook is playing at Kukui Grove Cinema in Lihu‘e. The film is rated PG-13 for some sexuality. Running time is 115 minutes.
Taren Fujimoto is an editorial assistant at The Garden Island. On the Net: www.thenote bookmovie.com
