Anthony Hopkins: "One Life"

"One Life" is a clever film that benefits immeasurably from Anthony Hopkins's presence.

Hopkins is an elderly man who worries about becoming a grandfather. His life has dried up, in a way; he spends his time hoarding objects, to his wife's frustration. She urges him to start "purging"--and this act sends him on a journey.

Long ago, the Hopkins character helped approximately six hundred children to flee Czechoslovakia during the Second World War. He did this, at least in part, because he and one child had discovered a shared love of swimming. The human connection moved him--and he found himself making calls on various desperate kids' behalf.

In the present, Hopkins wants his "Czech" papers and mementoes on view--as an example of the kinds of things that can be undertaken in your "one life." Because Hopkins, the actor, is so bright, he helps to make this character something different from a tiresome saint. Hopkins wisely underplays the big emotional scenes--and he savors little ironies (just with his eyes). It's difficult not to notice him, anytime he occupies just a fraction of the screen.

"One Life" also has some nice work from Helena Bonham Carter, the gift that keeps on giving.

Recommended.

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