Completely Finished

"An Unfinished Life" is a charming story that is parallel with reality. With a superb cast featuring the likes of Robert Redford, Morgan Freeman, Jennifer Lopez, Josh Lucas and newcomer Becca Gardner, "Unfinished" is able to please the audience as well as entertain. \nJean Gilkyson (Lopez) and her young daughter, Griff (Gardner), travel from the Midwest out to Wyoming in an effort to escape Gilkyson's abusive boyfriend. With no money and no place to go, Gilkyson decides to go to the ranch of her dead ex-husband's father, Einer (Redford), who blames her for the death of his son. Einer's only purpose for living seems to be to take care of his long-time friend, Mitch (Freeman), who is crippled after an encounter with a bear. Gilkyson finds work in the town of Einer's ranch and ends up staying, although at first she is not welcomed, and develops a relationship with the local sheriff played by Lucas. As the story continues, we see tensions grow between Gilkyson and Einer as they struggle to forgive each other for the past. \n Director Lasse Hallström ("Chocolat") is able to unfold the perfect story to reach out and capture the heart of the audience. Redford delivers an Oscar-worthy performance as a bitter rancher who softens up after meeting, for the first time, the granddaughter he never knew existed. Lopez surprisingly does a remarkable job playing Gilkyson and her acting has strongly improved since "The Wedding Planner" and "Monster-In-Law". \nNewcomer Becca Gardner is delightful as the curious Griff who works her way into her grandfather's heart. And of course, Morgan Freeman's performance is flawless. Aside from strong performances and a touching story of "An Unfinished Life," the film was beautifully shot with breathtaking scenery in Wyoming. \nI must admit that at first I was skeptical and uncertain of what to expect and after finding that this movie was out of stock at four movie rental places, I set my standards high. Starting out at a slow pace, and sticking to a pretty calm tone without dragging on, I was pleasantly surprised with the film. "Unfinished" is a touching story that is well adapted for adults, however, can also be something entertaining for the whole family.