An unusual, but effective, cast was gathered for this nostalgic and lovingly crafted film about the effect of the influx of American soldiers on a Northern English town during WWII. Gere plays a thoughtful and polite soldier who has to live down the reputation of "selfish yank" placed upon all the soldiers based on the behavior of his predecessors. He falls for sensitive and appealing Eichhorn, who's already got a beau fighting in the British Army. Meanwhile, commanding officer Devane is spending much time with Redgrave, the wife of a British officer who is away fighting. A third couple consists of eager soldier Vennera and bus ticket operator Morgan. These stories (with focus primarily on the first two couples) play out in episodes, occasionally overlapping, while the life of 1940's small town England is displayed with engrossing detail and authenticity. Gere is handsome and ingratiating despite some character flaws. Eichhorn, an American, does an admirable job playing British and is amazingly dewy and fresh. Devane, always interesting to watch, gives a solid performance. Redgrave has several luminous moments in her role and is very much at home with the material (though she and Devane are, ostensibly, very unlikely as a romantic pair.) Vennera and Morgan have little to do, but are endearing and energetic in their portrayals. It seems odd to use the word towering when describing the acting of such a low-key character as the one Roberts plays (Eichhorn's overburdened mother), but that's what she is. She brings terrific nuance and commitment to her role. It's hard to believe she would be dead within a year by her own hand. Harrison (as Eichhorn's young brother) has the type of un-Hollywood, natural appeal that all directors should search for. The whole film offers wondrous period atmosphere and a sentimental, yet realistic and sensible, approach to the characters. Not a tremendous amount of plot takes place. Many little moments and heartfelt touches are prevalent. The film is more of an ensemble character study and a postcard to the time in which it is set than a story driven film, but it does build to a rewardingly touching finale. A remarkable outdoor shower scene takes place within the first six minutes which ought to please anyone who loves a man in (or in this case out of!) uniform.