THE AGE OF ADALINE (B+)

The Bottom Line: Goofy molecular science meets whimsical storybook fantasy in this decades-spanning, light-hearted chick-flick-on-steroids delight.  Saddled with immortality after a horrible car accident in the 1930’s, Blake Lively brings subtlety, sophistication and schoolmarm sexiness to her nuanced character – a woman who very rarely gets attached, plays her cards (read: gift) close to her vest and keeps moving on every 10 years…without ever truly moving forward.  Her male costars, Michiel Huisman (Game of Thrones) and Harrison Ford, both add effective doses of humor and heart.  All three of these performances are terrific.  Plus, there’s a resounding innocence to the films message of letting go and giving in that’s both refreshing and effective.  Each reflective time period gives us more to learn and adds intriguing layers to our main character’s character.   Although it does dabble in melodrama, occasionally dips its toe in to schmaltz and only sort of skims the surface of what it might be like to never grow old – The Age of Adaline still maintains a timeless romantic charm that’s hard to resist.

Starring: Blake Lively, Michiel Huisman, Ellen Burstyn and Harrison Ford

Directed by: Lee Toland Krieger (Celeste and Jesse Forever)

Rated: PG-13

Running time: 109 minutes

Story: After miraculously remaining 29 years old for almost eight decades, Adaline Bowman (Blake Lively) has lived a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever. (C) Lionsgate

Official site: www.theageofadalinemovie.com