The newly released film, Winter’s Tale, fits well with this time of year. It’s set in a wintry New York City and celebrates the romance of Valentine’s Day. Directed by Akiva Goldsman, the movie is based on the novel of the same name by Mark Helprin.

Love, fantasy, miracles, and the relationship of light and dark are all common themes throughout Winter’s Tale. The story takes place over two time periods — the early 1900s and the present day. Peter Lakes (Colin Farrell) is a young, energetic, and mischievous thief who has gotten himself in serious trouble with an old boss, Pearly Soames (Russell Crowe). Pearly is trying to kill Peter, and, in the process of escaping, Peter finds a new partner, a beautiful enchanted stallion. Subsequently, Peter meets and falls for Beverly Penn (Jessica Brown Findlay), an sick heiress. The story continues in the present, where an amnesiac Peter attempts to regain his memory and save a little girl who has cancer, all while trying to evade Pearly, his eternal antagonist. The all-star cast also includes Jennifer Connelly as the young girl’s mother, William Hurt as the heiress’ father, Eva Marie Saint as a newspaper editor, and Will Smith as (believe it or not) Satan. Each of the actors does an impeccable job, evoking empathy and a clear understanding of every character.

The film’s trailer pretty much reveals the entire storyline. Winter’s Tale is a fairly typical love story, with a sweet ending and a corny plot, plus an odd hairstyle for Farrell.  Based on the premise that everyone lives to perform a miracle, it’s a great feel-good film, perfect to watch for February.  But, if you prefer a well-reasoned story and a realistic plot, then it’s best you choose something else to watch.