Til There Was You MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 Content: -2

This romantic comedy shares a similar concept with SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE - the two romantic leads don't get together until the end of the movie - but with none of its predecessor's charm. While destiny will eventually unite them, the life paths of Gwen Moss (Jeanne Tripplehorn), who ghostwrites autobiographies, and architect Nick Dawkan (Dylan McDermott) keep crossing without them actually connecting. Gwen has idealized notions about love because of her family's romantic past, but she can't find her own soul mate. Because his home life wasn't so glorious, Nick makes up stories about family and avoids serious commitments. While they still don't meet, these individuals draw closer together because they both associate with Francesca Lansfield (Sarah Jessica Parker), a former child TV star turned troubled adult. Gwen is hired to write Francesca's autobiography, while Nick's firm is going to demolish an old two-story apartment complex owned by Francesca and construct a modern building. Francesca selects Nick to be her architect, and they end up living together. Gwen has just moved into this complex, falling in love with its gorgeous courtyard and friendly atmosphere. Hearing about the demolition, she begins writing letters to the newspaper pleading for its preservation. Nick becomes fascinated with this anonymous person's passion, wondering if the building is worth saving and reassessing his relationship with Francesca. 'TIL THERE WAS YOU has funny moments, but the romantic angle is strained because Gwen and Nick are shallow and not too likable characters. The film-makers can't seem to make us care if these two people get together.

Sexual relationships between unmarried couples, particularly Nick's affair with Francesca, are this film's most serious flaw. Sex is implied twice as couples are shown in bed. Gwen has a relationship with a college professor that ends abruptly when she sees him caressing the face of a male student. Francesca refers to drug use in her past, but no actual abuse is shown. A plot device that will bring Gwen and Nick together has both characters addicted to cigarette smoking. Several obscenities and four regular profanities detract from the film's romantic intentions. Anyone looking for an old-fashioned romance won't find it in 'TIL THERE WAS YOU.

Preview Reviewer: Mark Perry
Distributor: Columbia Pictures, 10202 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232