“Wimbledon” (Universal Pictures)
Who would have ever thought Paul Bettany, the co-star of “A Beautiful Mind” and “Master and Commander,” would ever be a leading man in a romantic comedy! Well obviously his wife Jennifer Connelly knew he had it in him, but the rest of us were certainly in the dark. But a leading man he is in the new film “Wimbledon” and he is as charming and romantic as Hugh Grant ever was.
Bettany is fairly Grant-ish as Peter Colt, a tennis player whose best days have passed him by. He is a wild card player at Wimbledon but everyone knows he doesn’t have a chance. Even he concedes that win, lose or draw this is his last tournament.
Then along comes Lizzie Bradbury (Kirsten Dunst), a player on the women’s tennis circuit. She is also at Wimbledon and after she and Peter meet through a room mix-up they begin to see each other. This budding romance impacts on Peter’s tennis performance and soon he is winning matches once again. But how far can love take him
Wimbledon is a great backdrop for this romantic comedy. Both Bettany and Dunst were non-tennis players before the movie began filming but under the tutelage of Pat Cash they appear to be tournament proficient. They also have personalities that click in this story. Some actors have it and some don’t. Bettany and Dunst look like they could be an actual couple.
These two actors also have a glow about them throughout this film. Bettany is especially appealing in the romantic element of the film. He is awkward and tender and totally charming. You can see why he would win someone like Lizzie’s heart.
There is also a strong supporting cast in this film. Sam Neill is fierce and protective as Lizzie’s father/manager. Jon Favreau is sleazily funny as Lizzie and Peter’s agent. Bernard Hill and Eleanor Bron are lovingly charming as Peter’s parents. And John McEnroe and Chris Evert are grand commentators on the game and on the players involved.
The film is rated PG-13 for profanity, mild violence and brief nudity.
Bettany and Dunst play doubles in this game of love and score aces with their charm, charisma and talent. The film itself may be a lightweight romantic romp but the entertainment it provides is a heavy hitter.
I scored "Wimbledon" a well served 7 out of 10.
