“Falling in Love” is a romantic drama film released in 1984, directed by Ulu Grosbard. The film stars two Hollywood legends, Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro, in leading roles.
The story revolves around Frank Raftis (Robert De Niro) and Molly Gilmore (Meryl Streep), two ordinary people living in New York City. They lead separate lives until a chance encounter on a commuter train brings them together. Both are married to other people, but they feel an undeniable connection that draws them back to each other. Over time, they begin to meet regularly and develop a deep, emotional bond, leading to a complicated and tender love affair.
 Characters
Meryl Streep as Molly Gilmore: Molly is an interior designer who feels unfulfilled in her marriage. Streep’s performance captures the nuances of a woman caught between her responsibilities and the magnetic pull of a new love.
Robert De Niro as Frank Raftis: Frank is an architect who feels similarly trapped in his mundane life. De Niro portrays Frank with a mix of vulnerability and sincerity, making his internal struggle relatable and poignant.
Harvey Keitel as Ed Lasky: Frank’s friend, who offers a contrasting perspective on relationships and loyalty.
Jane Kaczmarek as Ann Raftis: Frank’s wife, who is unaware of the emotional turmoil her husband is experiencing.
The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of romance. Unlike many romantic dramas that rely on grand gestures and idealized love, “Falling in Love” is grounded in the everyday realities of its characters. The cinematography captures the mundane beauty of urban life, emphasizing the ordinary settings where extraordinary emotional connections can occur.
Upon its release, “Falling in Love” received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the chemistry between Streep and De Niro and the film’s subdued, realistic take on romance. Others felt that the story was too simple and slow-paced. However, over the years, it has gained appreciation for its nuanced performances and its honest depiction of a mid-life love affair.
Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro:
Streep and De Niro, both known for their profound acting abilities, deliver deeply felt performances that elevate the film. Their on-screen chemistry and ability to convey complex emotions add depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward romantic narrative.While “Falling in Love” might not be as widely known or celebrated as some of Streep’s or De Niro’s other works, it remains a touching and thoughtful exploration of love and human connection. It’s a film that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the unexpected and often inconvenient nature of falling in love. This was the second time Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro starred together. They first appeared together in “The Deer Hunter” (1978), another film that showcased their incredible chemistry and acting prowess.
Overall, “Falling in Love” is a tender, reflective film that offers a window into the lives of two people grappling with the complexities of love and commitment in a modern world.
