"'In this world, Elwood, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant.' Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant. You may quote me."

As close as I'll ever get to picking my favourite movie of all time. A smartly choreographed comedy that does farce as well as it does pathos, with a perfect lead performance by James Stewart. Watching Harvey should be on the entrance exam for being a Good Human.

"Your personality left something to be desired, namely a personality."

Somewhat brisk romantic drama that ends a little too neatly. Worth it for the Catholic grocery bag scene alone, however.

Me, for the first 5-10 minutes: This is sort of familiar and lightweight.
Me, for the rest of the movie: This is wonderful, and I'm an ass, and shut up there's just something in both of my eyes.

If I can forgive Ewan McGregor doing an American accent in your film, you've probably done something right. Beginners is sweet but not cloying, quirky but not too precious, and subtly moving. McGregor, Plummer and the absurdly pretty Laurent are brilliant, as is the photography and score. And Arthur.