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In the novel “Dear John,” Nicholas Sparks delivers another inspired story of love, life, and overcoming the odds. Unfortunately, director Lasse Hallstrom turned an effecting book about sacrifice, once-in-a-life love, and selflessness into a fairly predictable, throw-away romance.
The movie follows a young soldier as he comes home for leave, falls in love, and has to return to the Middle East in a pre-Sept. 11 world. The stresses of family, long-distance love, and the unpredictability of world events take varying tolls on the budding romance between two endearing, well-crafted characters.
“Dear John” is neither as relatable as “The Notebook,” nor as heart-wrenching as “A Walk to Remember,” which is truly unfortunate for the two lead actors Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried who deliver the performances of their young lives.
Tatum manages to transform into both a sex symbol and a mature lover; a hard-working soldier and a disconnected son. Through his portrayal of Sparks’ dynamic character Tyree, Tatum is able to put his emotional range on display as the war-hardened soldier and the confused, at times broken hearted, man. For fans, this is the movie to see starring the handsome up-and-comer.
Seyfried is equally charming in a role that taps into her natural allure. Tyree had no choice but to fall for Seyfried’s character Savannah Curtis. Calm confidence, grace, and purity pour from Seyfried in every scene.
Although the movie does not live up to the intricacies of the book, “Dear John” certainly has beautiful moments. Besides displaying the ever-expanding talents of Tatum and Seyfried, director Hallstrom managed to capture the chaos, fear and confusion surrounding the attacks of Sept. 11.
The scene is both unexpected and brief, but realistic and serves as a dynamic reminder of the emotional impact of that day in history.
Many illnesses and struggles are also depicted in a movie that can leave viewers feeling emotionally drained. However, Sparks’ consistent message that life is complicated and love reflects all our many complexities is present and powerful.
However, as is usually the case, the book portrays a much deeper, more sophisticated plot with characters that are less focused on summer romance and more focused on becoming complete individuals through all the struggles life presents. Overall, the movie serves its core purpose. It is entertaining and emotional. The story is touching and could not be more perfectly executed.
“Dear John” runs 105 minutes and is rated PG-13.
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