This was the third film adaptation of one of my novels by Denise DiNovi (she'd also done Message in a Bottle and A Walk to Remember), and because it was filmed only a couple of hours away, I had the chance to visit the set more often than usual. And while I had a chance to meet everyone involved in the production, I particularly enjoyed having the chance to spend a lot of time with Denise, whom I now consider an old friend.
As for the film -- and any dramatic film -- the chemistry between the lead characters is all-important. It goes without saying that Richard Gere and Diane Lane had chemistry in abundance -- it was their third film together -- and even while they were filming, I knew the movie would be terrific. Everyone involved in the project cared deeply about it; it was one of those stories that most people could relate to. Richard and Diane were outstanding in their roles, and on my first viewing, I found myself moved by the story. Strange, considering I knew the story inside and out, but the performances were strong enough to make me forget all that.
The film was terrific and exceeded all expectations at the box office (it was Warner Brothers' second most profitable movie of the year, behind The Dark Knight), but I wasn't surprised. I'd known something fantastic was brewing all along. My hats off to Denise and George (the director), as well as Richard and Diane. I couldn't have been any happier.
