Blu-ray Review: “Somewhere in Time” (1980)

“Somewhere in Time” is a timeless romantic fantasy film that seamlessly weaves elements of love, destiny, and the mystique of time travel. Released in 1980, the movie is a cinematic adaptation of Richard Matheson’s novel “Bid Time Return.”

Directed by Jeannot Szwarc, the film explores the captivating tale of Richard Collier, a playwright portrayed by Christopher Reeve, who becomes entranced by a photograph of a beautiful actress from the early 20th century.

Determined to unravel the mysteries surrounding her, Collier discovers a unique method of time travel that allows him to journey back to 1912.

Szwarc, known for his adept storytelling and visual finesse, skillfully brings to life this enchanting narrative, creating a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of Time and captures the hearts of audiences with its poignant romance and evocative atmosphere.

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The Story of Somewhere in Time

In 1975, after 25 years of writing dread-laden tales of terror and suspense, Richard Matheson surprised his readers with a romantic fantasy novel, Bid Time Return.

Inspired by a portrait of the late 19th/early 20th-century actress Maude Adams, this novel tells the story of a playwright who travels through Time to pursue the woman of his dreams.

The film rights were sold to producer Stephen Deutsch, and in 1978, director Jeannot Szwarc took on the project.

The resulting film, renamed Somewhere in Time, was released in 1980 to mixed reviews and disappointing box office returns.

Despite this, the film gained a dedicated following, especially after finding a second life through home video and being championed by a cable outlet.

The story was even adapted into a stage musical, and now, the original film has been re-released in high definition on Blu-ray by Universal Studios Home Entertainment.

The film follows Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve), a young playwright who, in 1972, is given an old-fashioned pocket watch by a mysterious elderly woman who whispers, “Come back to me.”

Eight years later, while visiting the Grand Hotel, Collier becomes fascinated by a photograph of a beautiful actress, Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour).

He discovers that the older woman who gave him the watch was none other than Elise herself. Intrigued, Collier uses self-hypnosis to will himself back in Time to 1912, where he meets Elise.

Despite various obstacles, including her stern manager (Christopher Plummer) and the workings of fate, the two are drawn to each other.

Bid Time Return marked a turning point in Richard Matheson’s career.

Before this novel, he was known for horror and suspense stories that found terror in everyday modern life, influencing the development of horror literature in the mid-20th century.

However, as Matheson’s interests shifted towards metaphysics and the paranormal, his work began to reflect a personal philosophy that included beliefs in an afterlife, karma, and reincarnation.

This shift in focus is evident in Bid Time Return and other works such as “What Dreams May Come.”

Matheson wrote the screenplay for Somewhere in Time himself, staying faithful to the novel except discarding a story point about Collier having a fatal brain tumor and thus possibly hallucinating his experiences in the past.

The film sometimes feels like a romantic episode of The Twilight Zone, given Matheson’s association with the series and director Szwarc’s background in television.

However, some aspects of Szwarc’s direction have been criticized, such as the heavy-handed portrayal of love at first sight.

Despite its initial lukewarm reception, Somewhere in Time gained a dedicated following and has now been re-released in high definition for fans to enjoy.

The film’s enduring appeal speaks to the timeless nature of its romantic and supernatural themes.

Depiction of Time Travel and Romantic Connection

Director Jeannot Szwarc effectively conveys Collier’s transition into the past using subtle aural cues and lighting changes.

The lovers’ first meeting in 1912 is skillfully presented, with Elise being revealed to the audience through a reflection in a window.

However, the film struggles to communicate what makes Richard and Elise’s love so special beyond the time travel element.

Their connection appears superficial, as the film fails to portray their bond convincingly, relying on clichés such as a montage of the couple having fun outdoors, shot in soft focus.

In his role as Collier, Christopher Reeve is likable and sincere but lacks depth in his character. Jane Seymour, on the other hand, delivers a better performance, exuding charm and beauty.

Despite the stiff period dialogue, she displays initial trepidation and later exudes a sense of playfulness.

Her improvised monologue about the man of her dreams is one of the film’s most memorable scenes, effectively conveying a genuine romantic tone.

However, the chemistry between Reeve and Seymour falls short of portraying passionate lovers; instead, they come across as more like good pals.

Christopher Plummer’s portrayal of Elise’s jealous manager adds some depth to the story, but his character feels more like a plot device than a fully fleshed-out role.

Composer John Barry’s score plays a vital role in bolstering the romance in the film, effectively capturing the required mood.

Despite the film’s writing, direction, and acting shortcomings, the score enhances the romantic elements with a slightly bittersweet edge.

The film’s appeal lies in its timeless tale of a love that transcends Time, presented with likable stars, beautiful settings, and music that adds emotional depth to the story.

While the film may have flaws, its unapologetically old-fashioned charm makes it unique and endearing to its fans.

Somewhere in Time’s enduring appeal to its fans can be attributed to its romantic fantasy elements, attractive leads, picturesque settings, and emotionally resonant music.

Despite its flaws, the film’s timeless and old-fashioned nature continues to captivate audiences, making it a cherished classic for many.