Fate’s decision

Star-crossed lovers who eventually land up together – but not as you might imagine.

The Best of Me is a romantic drama which seems, at the onset a little predictable, however, the ending came as quite a surprise when the hero dies before he and the woman he pines for get together.

The two do, however, land up together in a most unlikely manner.

High school sweethearts – and some might say soul mates – Amanda and Dawson (played by Michelle Monaghan and James Marsden) reunite years later when they are called home for the reading of a friend’s will.

The two, who have not seen or spoken to one another for 21 years, have a tenuous connection as the film begins owing to a parting which was less than amicable.

On the night of prom, a horrible accident sees Dawson shooting his cousin which leads to his incarceration.

Although Amanda tries to visit him in prison, Dawson refuses to see him and the very hurt Amanda leaves home to attend college.

Now, years later the will forces them to spend time together and leads to not only a rekindling of their friendship, but also of their romance.

Amanda finally returns to her unhappy marriage, and while both she and Dawson long to be together, neither takes the first step and tragedy stems the newly found romance.

The Best of Me is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks and is a thoroughly enjoyable watch – provided you’re the romantic type.

This is definitely one to add to the DVD collection for cold winter’s evenings.