Anything But Love (2002) User Reviews (20)

Technicolor Dreamer

[bneyman · 7/10 · 6 January 2005]

Billie Golden (played by Isabel Rose, in a part she wrote herself) is an extremely small-time cabaret performer in a seedy neighborhood of Queens (or is it Brooklyn?). She sings pretty well, and loves the great cabaret standards, but her musical career is going nowhere, and when she loses the one real performing job she's ever had it precipitates a crises in her life.

Billie lives in a world of Technicolor musical numbers, which occur at frequent intervals throughout this extremely entertaining romantic comedy. She meets a handsome corporate lawyer and falls in love with him, then gets an unexpected chance to perform again at her old stand. Many complications ensue, some of which are quite predictable, but all of which are written and enacted in a very charming way.

Andrew McCarthy as the third corner of the love triangle is very appealing here, in a scruffy sort of way. Isabel Rose is terrific, and the remaining cast members turn in quirky and convincing performances. Of particular note are the cinematography, set decoration, and costumes, which manage to achieve the look of vintage Technicolor on what must have been a very small budget.

This film has been released for cable under the title "Anything but Love," from the song that is a key part of the musical score. Whatever the title, "Standard Time" is well worth watching.

Life is a cabaret

[jotix100 · 7/10 · 13 February 2005]

This film played locally some time ago. Unfortunately, it came and it left before we had a chance to take a look at it. Evidently this must have been a labor of love from its director, Robert Cary and its star, Isabel Rose, who co-wrote the screen play.

The film presents us with a situation typical of New York, where a lot of would be performers gravitate because of the different opportunities the city has so much to offer. The first scene sets the tome for the picture. Billie, appearing at the third rate club is trying to sing the title song, but everything gets in her way. The pianist decides to have a pasty as he's about to accompany her; the people in the room, are distracted; one of the barmen starts the noisy blender; finally, a jet goes overheard, rattling the place. What's a singer to do?

We follow young Billie to an audition in which the accompanist does a horrible job at the piano. When finally someone is kind enough to hear what this young woman has to offer, he suggests to improve on her piano playing. She ends up going to the cheapest teacher, and surprise, surprise, he is Elliott.

The movie was shot in and around New York City. We see some lovely scenes shot around Riverside and Central Parks. The atmosphere of New York is captured by the creators of the film into a pleasant movie, that will charm anyone looking for a modestly good time.

As Billie, Isabel Rose, is excellent. She projects an innocence about the way she conceives her life around the music she loves. Andrew McCarthy plays Elliott, the piano teacher that falls for Billie, little by little. As her boyfriend, Greg, Cameron Bancroft is fine. Also in about three scenes in the film, the fabulous Eartha Kitt is seen doing what she does best, being herself!

A good movie to watch on Valentine's Day!

Cartoonish, Hallmark movie-of-the-week feel

[superbu1 · 5/10 · 28 February 2012]

This movie is somewhat entertaining, but the plot, dialog, acting, and cinematography all have this very cheesy Hallmark Channel quality to it. The whole thing feels kind of dumbed down. I was very surprised to find this was a theatrical feature, because it really looks and feels like a TV movie.

Another problem with the film is that a high percentage of the dialog is dubbed, and not dubbed very well. It does tend to take one out of the movie.

The star of the picture, Isabel Rose, co-wrote the film with its director, presumably to show off her singing talents. I wish I could say her acting talents were the equal of her singing. They're not. She's a fair actress, not awful, but much of the time I found no real emotion or sense of spontaneity in her lines. I never get the sense people are having an actual conversation in the film. Everything SOUNDS like dialog. For example, when a character, kisses her for the first time, she doesn't seem flustered at all -- merely spouts out a line of canned dialog.

Again, it's a somewhat entertaining film, and I probably wouldn't shut the TV off if there was nothing else on, but the whole thing does have an amateur, simplistic feel to it.

Standard Time is worth your time!

[jenbarr · 19 November 2002]

I saw 12 films at the 2002 Fort Lauderdale Film Festival and Standard Time was by far my favorite.

In my opinion Isabel Rose has done a remarkable job of creating a polished and entertaining film with a low budget. The script and story, performances, music, costumes, and the wonderfully vivid and lush cinematography successful blend to make Standard Time such a pleasure to watch.

Hopefully Standard Time will secure U.S. distribution because I would love to see this movie released in theaters. I found it thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable and I would certainly see it a second time.

Andrew McCarthy is very appealing in this movie. Eartha Kitt also has a small, but very significant role. The rest of the cast is less familiar, but all gave quality performances.

A sad little mistake

[talltale-1 · 3/10 · 29 December 2004]

Awful in a whole new way, ANYTHING BUT LOVE probably should be seen by movie buffs--if only as a cautionary measure that proves all that can go wrong with a "vanity" production. I am guessing a vanity production, since there is no other reason on god's green earth to cast as talent-free and not particularly attractive non-singer/actress as Isabel Gold in the leading lady role--vied for yet by the likes of "lookers" like Cameron Bancroft and Andrew McCarthy--except that she also helped write this bizarre little movie. Her singing leaves much to be desired, and yet, unbelievable as it is, all the other characters in the film think she's terrific. There are a few moments here of actual charm or humor, but VERY few. Otherwise this is a silly, sad fiasco that veers from paint-by-numbers to paint-by-wrong-numbers. You know how it is when people look at a piece of modern art and someone says, "My kid could do better than that!" Well, this is a movie, the likes of which your--or anyone's--kid might do better.

Heart-warming Champagne Bubbles

[KierZ · 8/10 · 9 February 2003]

Just happened to catch the Canadian Premiere of 'Standard Time' at our local indie film festival. What a surprise! My fiancee and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing this wonderfully charming film. The star, Isabel Rose, introduced the film, and it was great to see how much of herself she put into it.

A lot of understanding and research of the Musical heyday was required to make this film authentic and Ms. Rose has a look that brings the experience together and makes it work.

Unlike a lot of other referential films, the 40's musical aspect of the film does not bog it down with obscure references, instead making the film a treat for the experienced and newbie alike. The narrative is compelling and in contrast to the films of the period in which our protagonist 'dreams', progressive as well, far more so than many of the other romance/comedy/marriage films of today.

I must mention that Andrew McCarthy does a wonderful turn as the piano teacher, probably a note better even than New Waterford Girl, showing far better chops and charm than he ever did in 'Pretty in Pink'.

Overall, an amazing debut effort that deserves a turn on the distribution merry go round; it just might pick up as much steam as that 'Ethnic Wedding' film.

Nice attempt........

[Wells5150 · 1/10 · 30 July 2003]

It was poorly shot. Looks Like a rush job, last minute casting is obvious. Writing is very weak. Good for stage, not film. I feel bad for Andrew McCarthy. He's a very good actor who has not been getting good roles lately. This role was not for him. Maybe glad it has been picked up yet. On the festival circuit this film shall stay.

Romantic Indie Deserves Wider Appreciation

[cottrellpj · 9/10 · 9 February 2003]

I just saw Standard Time at the Victoria Film Festival. Not just for incurable romantics like me, it should also appeal to fans of nostalgic flicks like "Purple Rose of Cairo". Deserves a full release.

Debbie

Afternoon Delight

[futuredjchic2000 · 26 October 2004]

I am such a fan of musicals and romance movies with a happy ending. This movie appeals directly to the hopeless romantic in me. I won't give away much of the movie, but what I will tell you is that our heroine is beautiful and talented and not in the way that Hollywood demands. She's got a wonderful figure without being anorexic thin. And the men are not soap opera hunks (thank god!). This movie is not just a love story, but also encourages you to follow your dreams. It's a heartwarming story told in a very timeless way. The dream sequences are fun, and the songs classic. If you are looking for a movie for a girl's night, or something to cuddle up to your honey with on a rainy day this is most definitely your movie.

De-lovely

[florafairy · 8/10 · 15 November 2003]

At some movie theatres lately, you have the choice of seeing "Love Actually" or "Anything But Love"; ironically, the titles are the exact opposite of what these films are really about. After the depressing fairy-tales of "Love Actually" it was so refreshing to see a film that may not have had the advantages of a big budget or top-name talent, but makes up for it with sincerity. For Billie Golden, the first love in her life is her music, and she finds love with a man who has the same philosophy. How reassuring to find a film that doesn't glorify materialism and appearances and subjugates the love story to the more important life journey of finding one's passion. Miss Isabel Rose certainly looks and acts the part and has a nice little voice; Andrew McCarthy, as already noted, is perfect as the sclubby pianist. The rest of the cast is serviceable (Cameron Bancroft, I thought, was the weakest link). Costumes (particularly Billie's glorious retro fashions) were great and although there is a heck of a lot of distractingly bad ADR, there are some great NYC locations that make this one of the great movie valentines to the Big Apple, along the lines of "Annie Hall." The Technicolor dream sequence was a nice touch. Some interesting, not-oft-heard standards are to be found in the score. The script was awkward at times, particularly in the ending, but overall this is a fine little movie and a great holiday treat.

Sweet, romantic, uplifting

[kbell5197 · 9/10 · 22 October 2004]

I loved this movie. It's sweet, romantic, sentimental, and reminds me of the old-fashioned films that we grew up with. The songs are wonderful and it's a feel-good movie you can watch with your mom, or your grandmother. The shots of New York City are gorgeous; the city never looked so good. You can tell that the filmmaker took extra care in his presentation. Although Andrew McCarthy isn't on screen all that much, he was fun to watch when he does appear. There are so many dark, disturbing films out, that this is truly a breath of fresh air. I'll admit it's a bit of a "chick flick" but also a date movie. Enjoy it for the romance that it has, and the beautiful visuals.

Great Date Movie: music and romance in New York

[elizabeth-blust · 8/10 · 25 September 2002]

This film made its debut at the 2002 San Diego Film Festival to an enthusiastic audience. This unique story about a cabaret singer trying to break away from the airport lounge circuit while looking for love and fulfillment is a perfect escape from the bikinis and explosions found in most movies these days. Shot with great color, filled with wonderful old standard songs, and written with the soul of experience by star Isabel Rose and director/choreographer Robert Cary, this is a film that any music lover would enjoy. It's not a musical, but it is full of music. Andrew McCarthy and Eartha Kitt are fabulous, and Isabel Rose won Best Up and Coming Actress at the San Diego Film Festival.

for that feel-good buzz....

[smfisher · 9 December 2003]

If you are a fan of MGM and RKO musicals of the 30s and 40s, you will get the references in this film and enjoy them!!! If not, but like movies that let you escape, you will love this film. It's sweet, clever, poignant, and funny the way a good Cole Porter or Irving Berlin tune is. I saw this movie last night and had a wonderful time. Go see it!!!!! :)

This movie will change the way you think about classic romances.

[steeeeephanie · 10/10 · 19 February 2005]

Normally I hate love stories. I feel like everything about love has already been said and nowadays it's just the same stories over and over, characters filled in with the same qualities, flat and bland actors who evoke no empathy or compassion.

Having these views on all romance stories, "Anything But Love" completely surprised me. The story was so real, yet not cliché or boring. It's an old and common story (A girl is faced with a decision between love or money -- a plot that I've run across many times in musicals) but it brings a new and realistic light to the idea. Billie Golden (Isabel Rose) plays an aspiring middle-aged cabaret singer with little experience and few places to go, yet -- like so many other aspiring artists -- is very very talented. In the beginning of the film, she gets fired from her regular gig (in fact, the only gig she's ever had) that her family has been doing for generations.

Her best friend, Marcy (Ilana Levine), suggests that she audition for a new gig. However, when she shows up, the accompanist, Elliot Shepherd (Andrew McCarthy), makes mistakes that cause her to look amateurish and unprepared. Needless to say, she didn't get the job. Afterwards, while drowning her miseries, she runs into Greg Ellenbogen (Cameron Bancroft), the most popular guy at her old highschool, now an impressive business man. The two begin to date, despite their clashing career goals.

Billie gets a chance to show one of her other talents to her boss -- playing the piano -- he re-offers her the job, provided that she be able to accompany herself. She begins her quest to find a piano teacher and, after a few humorous attempts, finds one who is very promising -- ironically the same guy who screwed up her audition. Despite their differences, she becomes a successful pianist, and the two start to have an amazing amount of chemistry.

But while Billie's piano teacher is making her dream seem all the more likely, her boyfriend is constantly discouraging her and trying to manipulate her into marrying him for an obvious business advantage. However, their feelings become impossible to deny after a very heart-moving make-out scene. They make plans to get rid of Greg, make both their dreams come tru, and let their love prosper.

The plot takes a dramatic twist when Billie's mother (Alix Korey) declines into alcoholism and tries to kill herself. Greg offers to pay for her rehab, and she is unable to refuse. She then accepts his marriage proposal and starts to reform from an Audrey Hepburn wannabe to a successful business man's wife -- one who should be seen and not heard.

The ending is overwhelmingly happy, yet still very realistic and untrite. No one is left unsatisfied; this is a definition of an effective feel-good film. This movie is a breath of fresh air in the midst of today's darker and more depressing films. I highly recommend it.

A magical timeless "standard" for a new generation

[ternet · 9/10 · 9 October 2002]

There aren't too many films made today that have a timeless quality about them. Standard Time is like a classic standard that brings a truly magical and romantic quality to the present generation. It combines a stylish idealism, which the entire film is held up against, right along side a tangible realism. The story unravels subtly, ebbing throughout the captivating cabaret numbers performed by Isabel Rose. Her voice is beautifully pure and unadulterated like the character she plays. She owns her performance like only a writer could. Andrew McCarthy is back with a matured depth, but retains the charm to complete the ensemble brilliantly. You'll be surprised at how well they work within and around the genre they brought back. This movie has the charm of a 60's Barbra Streisand comedy and the vividness of an Ester Williams set using the latest technology to bring back the brilliance of the look of Technicolor. This is a very special film; as with any good timeless classic, it's relevance will reach far into the future. It's hard to believe it's an indie, let alone the writers and director's very first film!

This movie will restore your faith in humanity and maybe in yourself.

[PWNYCNY · 10/10 · 25 April 2010]

This is one of the greatest movies ever made. Acting - excellent; direction - excellent; story - excellent; screenplay - excellent; art direction - excellent; dramatic intensity - excellent; in short, every element of this movie is excellent. The movie deals with several themes - social pressure, artistic integrity, personal integrity; courage; the demeaning nature of the audition process and the purpose of art. The story is intense; character development - fantastic and the characters both relevant and likable. The music is incredible; and the beautiful Isabel Rose, who is the personification of Kitty Carlisle, and the great actor Andrew McCarthy, who plays a struggling musician, should have won every acting award for their fine performances. What makes this movie even more of a gem is that it is entirely unpretentious, tells a story, has great continuity, is highly watchable - and features the lovely Eartha Kitt. The story is neither corny nor hokey; it's about pursuing your dream. It's about being true to yourself. It's about love, real love - for a person, for art and love of life. This movie will make you laugh and cry; it will make you feel good; it will restore your faith in humanity and maybe in yourself.

A gem

[fred3f · 8/10 · 9 March 2005]

Isabel Rose stars as a cabaret singer who has to choose between the art that she loves and a wealthy life as the wife of a corporate lawyer. Isabel has a pleasant voice and she attractive looks, but she is not a great singer, or a glamorous star. Maybe that is why this film succeeds so well. She isn't a Judy Garland, but she obviously has is a love for singing the old standards, and it is obvious that music is part of her soul.

The film is bursting with charm and atmosphere. While is is not of the technical caliber of the great MGM musicals, it has a raw joy that is seldom seen in films. This film has more sincerity, more heart, more soul and more music than any romantic comedy or musical that I have seen in recent years. It is the real thing by real people who mean it. A rarity and something to treasure.

I really enjoyed this film..For me it blended some...

[avalondrift-1 · 25 October 2003]

I really enjoyed this film..For me it blended some of my favorite ways to be entertained..Standard Songs, Romance, Humour, and Wonderful, Refreshing Actors who did not distract from the story..The character "Amboise" the restaurant/club manager was hilarious from beginning to end..

Absolutely something

[rrfrank · 15 May 2004]

Isabel Rose could be the next Susie Pritzy or Mitzy Finger. She has that kind of potential. When you see her on screen you think, My God, what's she doing there? And then you look around and ask yourself, What am I doing here? And then someone tells you to shut up because you are talking aloud to yourself. But you go on... because you must. Very much like this movie. More talented people could not have pulled this off. And I mean that. I mean, I'm not just saying, er writing, that, or this. But I must have ten lines of text before IMDB lets me submit this comment, and I'm almost there. Just a few more words and I will have reached the minimum. I'm almost there. Bare with me. Here comes the end.

Trite, dull vanity project

[Naneaux · 23 November 2003]

I love musicals and cabaret theater and had high hopes for this film after reading the positive blurbs in the Times ad. It was a real let-down... our heroine deserves to remain a headliner at the JFK Skytel Lounge in Queens because she lacks the talent and charisma to do anything else. Absolutely nothing about this turkey is interesting - not the script, not the lackluster musical performances and not Andrew McCarthy who cannot stop fussing with his cruddy baseball cap. Save your time and money and go rent "Singing in the Rain" instead.