'Old Fashioned' Ditches 'Fifty Shades' Whips and Handcuffs for Some Old School Courting, and It Works (Review)
Filmmaker Rik Swartwelder took a huge risk by creating a romantic film, not quite a comedy, which explores the all but lost practice of courting a mate.
Although the dating alternative is found in some Christian circles, most male-female relationships in today's world revolve around dinners, physical interaction and non-committal attitudes. And while society has probably gone all the way left, this film takes it all the way back and it works.
Without the use of any big stars and the faith-based film tag, "Old Fashioned" manages to communicate a message of embarking on a relationship while holding the highest respect and reverence for your partner.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Actress Elizabeth Ann Roberts plays Amber, a modern woman who's tried it all, including failed marriages and moving to different towns every time life gets complicated, in order to find happiness. She meets Clay Walsh, played by Swartwelder, whom she develops an interest in; however, he's dead set on conducting their relationship in an "Old Fashioned" way without any physical intimacy, typical dating scenarios and any alone time while not in public.
Their journey does a great job at kicking up various issues within all types of relationships, including co-habitation, womanizing and partying. The film is able to address many of these subjects in a seamless way. Roberts dazzles in her performance as Amber, making any typical guy watching the film instantly fall in love with her.
"Old Fashioned" takes some risks by keeping itself out of the Rom-Com category, as very little comic relief is offered. Instead, what you get is a well written drama that pulls you into the lives and experiences of the two characters. It features a darker tone than most romantic films and even leaves the viewer with a mood of despair.
The lesson in courtship also doesn't come across as preachy and this movie actually makes the practice, which might be considered Stone Age by many, as a viable alternative for those who've been burnt by modern dating and the hookup culture.
In terms of faith, it's clear that the main character is a Christian, but that element is also not shoved down the viewer's throat or promoted too heavily.
And as for "Fifty Shades of Grey" comparisons, the film works on its own and shouldn't only be viewed as some kind of direct competitor although it definitely benefits from the timing. "Old Fashioned" is a movie anyone could enjoy as the characters have great depth and the message and story is delivered in a relevant and realistic way.
