In a world where the phrase “romance is dead” seems to be thrown around, “Hope Springs” brings back old-fashioned romance to the film world, while still maintaining the charm and humor that help to attract and entertain audiences.

The story surrounds Kay (Meryl Streep) and Arnold (Tommy Lee Jones), an older couple whose relationship, after decades of marriage, begins to slow and lose the passion it once contained. Kay feels these issues in their relationship are detrimental and are only getting worse, while Arnold would rather watch golf than deal with any sort of emotional problem.

As a result, Kay signs both of them up for a week of intensive marriage counseling with well-known marriage therapist Dr. Feld (Steve Carell) in a coastal town in Maine, fittingly named Hope Springs. Arnold feels the whole thing is a waste of time and money, until the hilarious-yet-moving words of Dr. Feld begin to make Arnold look more deeply into what his relationship has become and move him to try and restore some intimacy to their lives again.

With great performances by the entire cast and a witty, heartfelt script written by Vanessa Taylor, this film proves to be a romantic story that truly reaches its audience. Director David Frankel (“The Devil Wears Prada,” “Marley & Me”) helps to portray the story with great timing and brings out memorable performances from Streep and Jones. In addition, Carell, despite being associated mostly with either raunchy or silly comedies, gives a comedic performance with enough depth that viewers will certainly be able to take him seriously.

The only issue in this movie is its inability to relate to a young audience because its plot revolves around such a mature relationship. Nevertheless, its charm and humor will delight audiences and leave them reflecting on their own relationships.

Overall Rating: 3 Stars

A couple that has lost its sense of intimacy seeks therapy from a renowned doctor in order to restore romance to their life.