A film that ages well! Released in 1991, The Prince Of Times, seen recently (2005), ages very well.
It is a waste Streisand made only three films as a director for she is sensitive, attentive to her actors, good for details, especially in that film. In 91, I was 15 so I remember thinking that film was quite boring. But now at 29, more than once was I deeply moved, in particular by the strong bond between southern brother and suicidal sister. It IS true that the ambiance of the movie is a bit depressing and one has to be open to psychology and soul-searching to appreciate that film, but it is a great piece, really well done that ages very well. Not far from a future classic.
Nick Nolte is SO VERY good in his part, giving it his all, that, seeing him, one think THAT'S the true definition of an actor. He's able to convey the many sides of his character to the viewer effortlessly. A great performance, really.
Not so much for Streisand as an actress here! For the first three quarters of the film, she rely more on looks and mannerisms than acting. She DOES look very good and classy in her own movie, but who wouldn't expect more from certainly the most talented woman if not performer of all time? Near the end of the movie, she becomes more credible as an actress, but, overall, she's disappointing in her part.
All the others are just perfect. Even the children. With the exception of Jason Gould. But I must single out the wonderful Blythe Danner here! At last a meaty part for her! But that fabulous woman just can be and that's enough. She's beautiful in a natural way, always without a trace of affectation, healthy, radiant...Thanks to Streisand for casting her and directing her so beautifully.
What else? See that movie for itself. It is good. But for those who aren't familiar with the famous Streisand, perhaps the younger ones, and who are curious to discover what the fuss is all about regarding that legendary performer, don't judge her as an actress by that film. Go rent «Yentl», «Funny Girl», even «Hello Dolly» despite everything bad that has been said about that last movie (including by the lady herself!), and then, just then, you'll know who is Streisand. She HAS to sing to glow! In spite of what she's always sustained for more than 40 years, she is a singer who acts, not the contrary. As an actress alone, she's much too lazy, too self-conscious and...well, how to put it (sorry, my first language is French!), uneven...is it the right word? Unequal...you know, sometimes very good, sometimes just okay...erratic? Anyway, you know what I mean...so she's too much of all these flaws as an actress alone without singing to be a really great actress. She HAS to sing.
On these final words, go see the movie. You won't regret it. Enjoy.