Feast of Love is a tender and life-affirming exploration of love in its various forms. Set in a close-knit Oregon community, the film weaves together the stories of several individuals as they navigate the joys and sorrows, the mysteries and the mundanities of love.
The film features a strong ensemble cast, led by Morgan Freeman, who brings his signature warmth and wisdom to the role of Harry Stevenson, a retired professor who observes the intricacies of love with a philosophical perspective.
Greg Kinnear delivers a nuanced performance as Bradley, a coffee shop owner who experiences both the highs and lows of romantic relationships.
Radha Mitchell shines as Diana, a complex woman caught in an affair, while Billy Burke portrays her conflicted lover.
The younger cast members, including Alexa Davalos and Toby Hemingway, bring a raw and passionate energy to their roles, capturing the intensity of young love.
Fred Ward appears as the abusive father of Hemingway’s Oscar Gamlen.
Selma Blair and Jane Alexander provide solid supporting performances, adding depth and nuance to the ensemble.
Director Robert Benton, known for his character-driven films, such as Kramer vs. Kramer and Twilight (1998) brings a gentle touch to Feast of Love. He allows the stories to unfold at a leisurely pace, giving the actors room to explore the emotional landscapes of their characters.
The screenplay, based on the novel by Charles Baxter, is rich in detail and insight, offering a meditation on the complexities of human connection.
Feast of Love is a film that celebrates the resilience of the human heart. It acknowledges that love can be messy, painful, and unpredictable, but it also emphasizes its power to heal, to transform, and to connect us to one another. The film’s message is ultimately one of hope and optimism, suggesting that even in the face of heartbreak and disappointment, love is always worth pursuing.
Greg Kinnear and Radha Mitchell in Feast of Love (Photo/MGM)
Reception for Feast of Love
Feast of Love grossed $1.7 million on its opening weekend, en route to a worldwide gross of $5.7 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film two out of four stars in his review, saying “No movie can be very good that contains Fred Ward’s worst performance (it’s the fault of the character, to be sure).”
Legacy
Feast of Love is a beautifully crafted and deeply moving film that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the joys and sorrows of love. With its exceptional cast, sensitive direction, and insightful screenplay, it is a testament to the enduring power of human connection.
