Ugh...here we go again. I felt like I was being accosted by the overeager theme, all the while hoping for some romantic subtlety.

As long as you don't indulge yourself in the expectation of any surprises in the plot or intricacy in the theme, it is entertaining. There is no small amount of effort trying to make a film of quality here, but being better than 80% is still pretty mediocre. The visuals are stunning. I also want to give full credit to whoever was in charge of casting. The ensemble and execution were very appealing and that alone is worth the watch. I know it is a rehash character, but I just can't look away from Octavia Spencer (Elisa's friend Zelda) and found myself looking forward to her lines. I am a sucker for Richard Jenkins in just about anything, but particularly when he wears his weakness like a crown. There is a certain frailness he is able to channel at will that is magnificent. You can easily picture his character (in scenes never filmed) alone in a room at night muttering "How did I ever end up like this?"

Also, the convenient setting of 1962 does not excuse the tired caricature of straight white men. My gas tank is running low on collective guilt for the horrors of suburbia, and I wonder who is left to convince on this one? Aren't we all now singing a harmonious rendition of the hit song, "Men (mostly white & straight) are Deplorable and Care Nothing for Love"? I'll check my white privilege as I am sure that even calling out this ridiculous stereotype is going to have me called a racist by someone.

I will concede that this film will be absolutely adored by a segment of the viewers, even the ridiculous dance scene. Go ahead and watch it on the slim chance that you may be one of those people. It really wasn't that far off, but in the end, it will fade away like so many other best picture winners that lack any sort of timeless quality.