(4 out of 5 stars)

Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson turn in great performances in a nice subtle film about two older people down on their luck who run into each other and find each other’s company filling the void that the rest of their lives had created. This is not a movie with all its spectacle, but instead I categorize this as a film, one that is simple and to be appreciated for the small work of art that it is.

The director does a great job in focusing on these two people rather than use the supporting players as comic relief as seen in movies like Return to Me. Don’t get me wrong, I like comic relief, but it was not appropriate for this film.

Hoffman delivers his lines as only he can making the moviegoer appreciate him as much as Thompson’s character does. He delivers his funny comments with wit and softness to create a chuckle from just about anyone. Thompson shows her shyness throughout with her adventurous side rearing its head when only Hoffman’s character brings it out.

Thank goodness someone gave this little film a chance. Last Chance Harvey definitely deserves a viewing audience as much as Hoffman’s Harvey deserved a second chance. People make mistakes but this film is not one of them, it is a gem to be treasured with others.

Suggested similar recommendations: Return to Me, Love Actually