D

These Nicholas Sparks adaptation are every bit as formulaic by now as any Saw-sequel if not more. Seriously, even the final twist I could see unfold completely a mile away. I feel bad for Michelle Monaghan, who is a great actress, but often struggles to find good roles. Gerald McRaney was the only somewhat decent thing about this film.

I'm embarrassed to say I loved this but that ending pissed me off. Come on Nicholas Sparks! Other than that it's the rare romance that's actually pretty romantic. Michelle Monaghan and James Marsden were really good, as were the younger counterparts. I know Nicholas Sparks stories are all essentially the same but this one worked for me. And as usual the scenery was very pretty. I thought this looked fairly lame and was surprised I enjoyed it so much. Just wish it would have ended better.

8/10 (B+)