This Can't Be Love (1994)

This Can't Be Love Poster

Two aging actors, who had a brief but intense marriage in the 1940s, are reunited decades later to find that issues between them are not resolved.

Overview
"This Can't Be Love" is a romantic comedy television film that aired on March 13, 1994. The film was directed by Anthony Harvey and features film legends Katharine Hepburn and Anthony Quinn. The plot revolves around the reunion of 2 retired stars who were once wed and their journey as they uncover feelings lost for each other.

Plot Summary
The film takes off with Hepburn playing a retired starlet called Marion Bennett, living a lonely and secluded life in her aging. Nevertheless, everything changes when her previous other half and co-star, Michael Reyman (played by Quinn), intrudes on her peaceful existence. Marion and Michael had a rainy marital relationship and on-screen magic that lasted for a while up until their split 40 years earlier. They haven't spoken since their acrimonious split but reunite due to the mischievous outlining of Marion's manager played by Jason Bateman.

\ b \ The storyline progresses by revealing that Michael is broke due to poor financial management, and he is convinced by Marion's manager to reunite with Marion for the money. Nevertheless, he declines to request her financial assistance outright. Instead, he pretends to be poverty-stricken and stranded, hoping that Marion will take him in, and she does.

Reunion and Unfolded Drama
Their reunion unfolds a flurry of arguments, reminiscences, and almost-forgotten affection. Both are still active, even in their senior years, with Michael trying to end up being a restaurateur at his age, and Marion paradoxically playing a part in a brand-new play titled "This Can't Be Love". At the same time, old stress resurface, however a shared nostalgia brings them more detailed.

The movie brilliantly handles to highlight the character's egos, the couple's bickering, and their ultimately revealed still-burning flame of love. This is reflected as they hang out together, rehearse for a screen test, and travel together in a RV to California, with frequent comical encounters.

Final Reconciliation and Conclusion
Despite having a rough start, as they try to reconcile their feelings and find out their relationship, they establish a strong bond developed from past romantic history, current camaraderie, and love. They understand their equally stubborn nature and continue to bicker, but it's obvious that they share an irreplaceable, deep connection. As the plot comes to a close, the old lovebirds get back together, symbolizing that love genuinely understands no age or time limit, bringing laughter, heat, and a feel-good experience to audiences.

Efficiency & Reception
Both Hepburn and Quinn have given essential efficiencies, bringing their outstanding passionate chemistry to life. Director Anthony Harvey gets the best from his stars, the smart dialogue bubbles with wit, and the funny is mild yet pleasing.

Hepburn, in specific, received universal acclaim for her spirited rendition of Marion, offering a gorgeous ode to her remarkable career. The movie overall was valued for its light-heartedness, comic timing and smartly represented style stressing love, friendship, and theatrics. 'This Can't Be Love' functions as a wonderful movie for those who appreciate a good old-fashioned romantic comedy having a touch of fond memories and classic beauty.

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