Watch Hampstead

Hampstead is a 2017 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Joel Hopkins, starring Diane Keaton, Brendan Gleeson, and James Norton. Inspired by a true story, the movie follows Emily Walters (Keaton), an American widow who lives in a quaint flat in Hampstead, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in London. She spends most of her time volunteering at a charity shop and attending local events, trying to find a purpose in life after losing her husband.

Emily's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Donald Horner (Gleeson), a ruggedly handsome, eccentric man who has been living in a self-built shack on Hampstead Heath for seventeen years. Donald is an oddball, but he has a heart of gold and a love for nature that Emily finds irresistible. Despite their age difference and social disparities, Emily and Donald form an unlikely friendship that soon blossoms into a romance.

However, their newfound happiness is threatened by the presence of a group of wealthy developers who want to evict Donald and build luxury apartments on the land where his shack stands. Emily decides to help Donald fight for his home and his way of life, enlisting the help of her old friends and the local press. Together, they launch a campaign to save the Heath and preserve its natural beauty, while dealing with the obstacles imposed by the system and the prejudice of some of their neighbors.

Hampstead is a charming and heartwarming movie that celebrates the power of love and the simple pleasures of life. Its message of community, tolerance, and respect for the environment is timely and relevant, as it raises important questions about the meaning of progress and the price of progress. The film's setting is a major character in itself, as the stunning scenery of Hampstead and the Heath provides a gorgeous backdrop for the story and highlights the beauty of the British countryside.

The acting in Hampstead is superb, with Keaton and Gleeson delivering nuanced and engaging performances that capture the nuances of their characters' personalities and emotions. Keaton is delightful as Emily, a woman who is quirky and vulnerable, yet resilient and determined. She brings a touch of humor and grace to the role, infusing her lines with wit and charm. Gleeson, on the other hand, is outstanding as Donald, a man who is rough around the edges, yet endearing and insightful. He portrays Donald's passion for life and his values with sincerity and depth, creating a character that is both relatable and inspiring.

Norton, who plays Emily's son, Philip, also delivers a solid performance as a successful banker who is trying to mend his relationship with his mother. He brings a sense of sensitivity and maturity to the role, portraying Philip's conflicts and dilemmas with authenticity and nuance. The chemistry between Norton and Keaton is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film's most touching and poignant moments.

Overall, Hampstead is a delightful and uplifting movie that is perfect for anyone who loves a good romance, a good laugh, and a good cause. It is a film that reminds us of the power of compassion and the importance of standing up for what we believe in, even when the odds are against us. With its gorgeous cinematography, solid storytelling, and top-notch acting, Hampstead is a must-see for anyone who wants to be inspired and entertained.

Hampstead is a 2019 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1 and a MetaScore of 53.