Watch What I Did For Love

What I Did For Love is a heartwarming romantic drama from 2006 that brings to life the challenges and tribulations of a city lawyer who tries to win over his prospective rural in-laws. The movie stars Jeremy London as James White, a successful yet unsophisticated attorney from the bustling city; Dorie Barton plays Meg, the woman he loves and hopes to marry, who hails from a small, tightly-knit community of countryside dwellers; and James Gammon features as her crusty, traditionalist father who is not easily impressed.

Directed by Mark Griffiths, What I Did For Love captures a classic clash of cultures as James ventures into the rural world to ask for Meg’s hand in marriage during a family gathering. The timing is pivotal, as the visit coincides with the family's preparation for their youngest daughter's wedding in their hometown—a perfect setting for James to bond with the family and gain their approval. Yet, with his city slicker ways and lack of country etiquette, James is immediately out of his element, setting the stage for humorous misadventures and poignant moments.

The film showcases the brashness of James's city persona juxtaposed against the quiet, simple lives of Meg’s family and the other townsfolk. His initial encounters with Meg's family are fraught with misunderstanding and missteps. Particularly, her father, who stands as the narrative's most significant hurdle, is skeptical of James's true intentions and his ability to become part of their rural life.

Throughout his stay, James confronts varying degrees of skepticism from family and friends who are protective of Meg and her traditional lifestyle. The dynamic support cast helps to illustrate the disparities between James’s world and the one he must embrace if he wishes to be with Meg. The characters range from the kindly yet cautious mother figure to the brash ex-boyfriend still pining for Meg, each with their own beliefs about city versus country living.

As the lead, Jeremy London brings a mix of charisma and complexity to the role of James. He evokes empathy from the audience as he earnestly stumbles through country living, showing a genuineness beneath his polished exterior that begins to shine as he integrates more into rural life. Dorie Barton's portrayal of Meg is both sweet and grounded, balancing her character’s love for her hometown and traditions with the progressive influence of her life outside it. Together, London and Barton offer real chemistry that forms the anchor of the story, providing the emotional center amid the comedy and drama of the surrounding events.

The character-driven narrative in What I Did For Love often shifts between romantic comedy and a more earnest examination of love's sacrifices. While the movie delivers laughs through the series of cultural faux pas that James endures, it also touches on the deeper themes of love, family, and the importance of compromise. As James tries to win over the family, he also embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery, learning to value different lifestyles and perspectives.

The scenic backdrop of the countryside plays an almost character-like role in the story, too, offering views of vast landscapes, farming life, and rustic charm that starkly contrast the skyscrapers and streetscapes of James’s normal environment. This lends an atmospheric quality to the movie that sets the stage for James's transformative experience. The lush greenery, picturesque scenes, and country décor provide a visual retreat for the audience, enhancing the thematic elements of the story.

James Gammon as Meg’s father is particularly engaging, embodying the archetype of a stubborn patriarch who has to be convinced that the man seeking his daughter's hand is worthy. His gruff exterior and uncompromising nature add tension and obstacle to the narrative, but also depth to the familial relationships that are central to the movie's themes.

Additionally, director Mark Griffiths strikes a delicate balance in navigating the comedic and dramatic elements, never allowing the story to drift too far into either slapstick or melodrama. The film's score complements the on-screen action, providing an added layer of emotional and cultural texture.

Overall, What I Did For Love stands as a tale of love’s compromises, cultural adaptation, and the universal quest for acceptance. It's a story that highlights how far one man is willing to go for love—facing uncomfortable personal growth and awkward situations, all presented with a blend of humor and seriousness that speaks to the trials of blending worlds for the sake of the heart.

What I Did For Love is a 2006 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.