The Door in the Floor

REVIEW
Based on John Irving's acclaimed novel, "A Widow for One Year," this is a beautifully photographed feature reflecting on the hilarity of life's most tragic circumstances. Ted Cole (portrayed by Bridges in one of his best performances) is an accomplished author who has hired Eddie (Foster), a young aspiring writer, to be his assistant for a summer in the Hamptons. Eddie immediately becomes infatuated with Ted's damaged, beautiful wife Marion (flawlessly played by Basinger), learning that the couple have separated after the accidental deaths of their two sons. The Door in the Floor exquisitely examines the complexities of love between all of the essential characters, each of whom undergoes a profound and life-affirming change. One of the most important pieces of writing advice given to Eddie by Ted Cole is the stabbing requirement of paying attention to detail and that is exactly what author Irving and filmmaker Williams have accomplished here, creating a graceful, beautiful tapestry of emotion and character. A very touching drama with splashes of comedy, The Door in the Floor is rich in feeling, and reminds us that throughout life's most sullen times, a sense of humor is always a remarkable remedy.