The Notebook

“I am a common man with common thoughts, and I’ve led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten, but I’ve loved another with all my heart and soul, and to me, this has always been enough.“

This beautifully written love story begins with this poignant statement, narrated by the renowned James Garner. It immediately tells the viewer that they are in for a heartfelt story that is sure to evoke emotion. As any good story should begin, it grabs your interest and you want to know more about this man and his true love. His comment that he’s just a common man, makes him genuine and relatable right off the bat. The tag line at the top of the above photo says “Behind every great love is a great story”, and lets you know there’s more to learn.

I chose this movie because the first time I saw it I immediately fell in love with it, and yes, I have seen it countless times! If you like sappy romance and aren’t afraid to cry, then this movie is sure to make your top 10! It was originally a novel that was written by Nicholas Sparks and was inspired by his wife’s grandparents who were married for over 60 years. The movie goes back and forth between present day and the past and explores the young relationship between Noah, played by Ryan Gossling and his sweetheart Allie, played by Rachel McAdams.

The movie is relatable as it describes a young hopeful romance and first love and the careless joy that goes along with it. Weaving back and forth between James Garner reading from a journal to his companion played by Gena Rowlands and tells the story of young Allie and Noah. She is captivated and wants to know more about them. It stirs up memories and emotions and she is passionate to know how this love story ends. The author has kept the audience intrigued and wondering too. There’s a tenderness between the two friends and you can’t help but be drawn into the narrative he is describing. Creating hope that everything works out for the young lovers. However, the story doesn’t end there though and it takes a few twists and turns as their romance doesn’t go as expected. After years apart, the two meet up again and are faced with a  difficult decision . All good stories have a point of conflict and this one lays their relationship on the line once and for all. The viewer is on the edge of their seats, wondering what they will decide. Hoping these two soulmates end up together. There is anguish and confusion and the viewer is rooting for young Noah.

Does their love story get resolved and they live happily ever after? Clearly, I LOVE this sweet movie and I won’t spoil the ending but it definitely left a memorable impression and I still cry every time I watch it.