Saw Local Hero, a genial sort of early 80s comedy about a slick, big-city, oil businessman who must travel to a small Scottish village to seal the deal. Obviously, he'll become beguiled by the simple humility of these simple fisher-folk and learn that there's more to life than oil and money. I could see this coming after about ten minutes of the film, and indeed, the film doesn't have a lot in it that's shocking or surprising. However, it's still not bad. There's comedy but very little of it is in a setup/punchline format. There's not gags so much as wry observations and cute, humorous situations.
The film is also unexpectedly pretty. I was anticipating some lantern-lit scene of dancing accompanied by the mandatory accordion and fiddle to act as shorthand for the warmth of the fisher village. There is that, but there's also Brian Eno-esque synthesizer music playing while the protagonist marvels at the northern lights. Also, I was gratified to see it's not a day and night beguiling, but a subtle and believable change. There's also some excellent and hilarious business involving the protagonist's boss, back in the home office, being bedevilled by a new-age psychologist.
I wouldn't say that this film is one of my favorites by any means, but it's very wholesome and friendly. It's the sort of film you'd be able to watch with your parents. It's not particularly surprising or revelatory. It has a few moments of interesting camera work but for the most part it's one of those fine, friendly films which are either fondly forgotten or become family favorites.
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