William Hurt is one of my favourite actors. Steady, brooding, sensitive. Unfortunately, the mix of loneliness, poignancy and longing for love is obscured by oft ill-judged caricatured characters and situations.I've read through the other reviews as well as seen the movie twice, now. There is no doubt that men such as Graham Holt do exist, sitting in the wings of society. Far more commonly, their (early, in his case) midlife crises emerge as they find life is slipping by and one that will have true meaning - and legacy. "I want you to look after me when I'm old", he blubs to the boy, James as they fight and argue.Whilst the media has us all believe that only inner city kids with hoodies and a drug dependence are the only ones who have grave emotional issues. So far, we're OK. The intention is good and the intense interactions work well as well as the temper tantrums performed by both man and boy.I noticed that many reviewers who wrote glowing comments may be a little overwhelmed by our English "quaintness". Or supposed quaintness. I really don't want to sound patronising. We certainly hold onto unrepresentative views of the U.S. Thus, this film's sedate pace may have an added attraction for them. That, though isn't my issue - it's the likes of Jane Horrock's vulgar and totally unsuitable character, social worker Debbie and the overplaying of Keith Allen's part as the boy's father. I've had issue with social services myself and I can only think that the writer David Cook and director Chris Menges felt that the film needed 'spicing up'. A sardonic character often works and occasionally makes a film, but only if it works.I really don't wish to insult his film further - but that old chestnut that the critics usually end up with springs to mind - would make a great TV movie. A pretty good, one though.

second best is a nice film that can be emotionally tough to watch at times when the young boy has his tantrums. It stars well known actor William Hurt and a young boy actor. these two actors are the main characters in the film. William Hurt was known for his romantic roles in his early films but this is a different role for him. He looks very different in his role as a postmaster with his glasses but you can recognise his ginger hair. This is a good study of life in a post office and dealing with troubled relationships. The setting of the film can be mistook for Ireland but no, it's actually filmed in Wales. it's a nice setting. A Scottish actor from bond film goldeneye and julie walters are also in this film. It has a very nice music tune to listen to played at the end of the film.

The story theme rings true and shows the way. The world is still not a "kid friendly" place. It takes a very special adult and effort for a damaged child to re-bond with an adult. The single act that made it possible for James to finally re-connect was Graham taking in James' father. James needed that closure.I think one of William Hurt's best efforts. And Chris Cleary Miles gave a riveting performance. It's a shame he didn't do anything else.Simon Boswel's haunting theme and score was an added plus.I wish they'd make the movie available in the DVD format and re-release the sound track.

Happened past this on cable, and was instantly hooked. ChrisCleary Miles is an exceptional young actor, and I eagerly awaithis next performance. William Hurt turns in his usualoutstanding performance as well. Overall, a touching andultimately uplifting piece.