It's very Annie Hall-like in a way. The "I need the eggs" ending. Two people who have such a strong connection but because of circumstances, baggage, and everything in between, cannot be together, but you know that their lives are changed forever for the better. I'm hard pressed to think of very many movies that would come up with that conclusion.
shareWow, now i really need to see Annie Hall.
I'd also like to throw out the ending to 'Roman Holiday' as well.
Both Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck's characters are unable to be together, and in the end, Ann decides to forego running off from her royal duties, and returns to her station.
The final 5 minutes of the film to me, sealed the deal that the film was my favorite romantic film.
Joe and his friend Irving attend a conference at the end where Ann makes her return appearance after having been gone on her little 'Roman Holiday,' and Ann soon realizes Joe's profession.
The last worded exchange they have is when Ann wants to meet the members of the press. Though she blends her appreciation for what he did for her as if she was greeting anyone: "I'm so happy, Mr Bradley."
As well, before she leaves, she gives a little look around the room, and you get some close-ups of her eyes and Joe's. It looks like she wants to say so much more, then turns away.
The best moment comes when Joe is the last one to leave the reception hall. You hear his footsteps echoing, before he stops, looks back, waits a few beats...and then just keeps walking...and then it goes, 'The End.'
I couldn't believe that the first time I saw it: they bucked the typical romantic comedy trend, and that made me a fan of the film.
Even the end of 'Once' made me a lover of that film. To me, it was about that magic moment when Guy and Girl spent this time together, and she helped him get back on his feet. While the majority of people keep hoping the two will get back together again, I think the sadder, more realistic ending works. She helped to give him that second chance, push beyond his inadequacies, and follow a dream.
"Thanks, guys." "So long, partner."
- Toy Story 3 (9/10)
You know what, in Annie Hall I really didn't feel that deep of a connection.
Also the difference is in Annie Hall they were actually together before.. Because they were never together in this film I think it's all the more poignant. To me anyway.
And the relationship in once is in this strange place between friends and attraction. It's interesting. You want them to be together in some way but at the same time you can't help but think it's really just the place they are in their lives and the music that's bringing them together. If they had met under different circumstances the magic might not have been there.
So probably better to leave it as is. Untainted. :)