"I don't like our lives being in the hands of someone else." Alex (Freeman) and Ruth (Keaton) are getting ready to sell their apartment and begin a new chapter in their life. When they begin to show the space old feelings begin to come back. Now, between the visitors and looking for a new place, they start to remember the times they had together. First of all I have to say this movie was OK, but being 36, if I was about 30 years older I think I would have liked it more. The story is OK but this is a movie that resonates much more with an older crowd do due the subject matter. The acting is great and it was good but many of the subtleties were lost on me since I have never been through something like this. Overall, worth seeing but the older you are the more you will enjoy this. I give it a B-.
80 Reviews
An easy-going, cozy film. Maybe a bit too cozy
peterp-450-29871612 June 2015
"5 Flights up" is an easy-going film about an old married couple (Alex and Ruth) who came to the conclusion that after living in that part of Brooklyn for about 40 years, where they bought a cozy apartment, the time came to leave all this behind and find another place to live. For all sorts of reasons. First, the neighborhood is no longer as it was before and is engulfed by a younger generation. And also the lack of a lift became a daily obstacle for the house owner and their old dog. Eventually, they decide to sell their apartment and they leave this in the hands of a niece who knows the tricks in this business. And before they realize it, their apartment is occupied by potential buyers who can be divided into several categories: candidates who are determined to seize this unique opportunity with both hands, the yuppies who want to redesign the entire floor, the real estate tourists who just come their to watch television and eat some snacks and even someone who's always trying out the bed. Alex doesn't feel at home anymore, despite it's still his own apartment and it's not even sold yet.
For the two protagonists alone, I necessarily wanted to see this movie. Not that I'm a big fan of Diana Keaton, who usually plays a corny, traditional mother in some romantic comedy where someone is getting married once again (a film such as "The Big Wedding"). Although I could appreciate her performance in "The Family Stone", even though she played again the mother hen. But "5 Flights up" was perfect for her. A serene and formal older woman who even in the most hectic and stressful situations, remains calm. She's hardened by the past when she made the decision to marry an Afro-American. Compared to that every setback is just peanuts.
I was particularly curious about how Morgan Freeman would play his part. After a succession of meaningless roles in both brilliant films as soon-to-be-forgotten films, like "Olympus Has Fallen", "Oblivion", "Now you see me", "Last Vegas", "Transcendence", "Lucy" and "Last Knights", it was once again time for this brilliant actor to being featured in an entire movie. And he lived up to my expectations. Flawlessly he acquitted himself of his task : the spouse who's still in love with his wife after all these years, the cheerful artist who rather withdraws into his studio while strangers are wandering through his flat, the worried owner of a pet that needs medical assistance (no matter what it costs) and the resolute decision maker who ultimately decides about what's rightfully his. Formidable performance.
Only the script is kind of dull to keep things interesting. Admittedly, the situations arising from the sale are frequently humorous and engaging. But a whole film just about selling an apartment with on the one hand the financial advantage and on the other hand a pile of memories that needs to be left behind, is still only limited material to work with. The message that this film conveys is that money can't replace nostalgic musings and feelings. A sunrise is nowhere the same and you'll have to forget certain habits and situations from the past. It's beautifully imaged with flashbacks that don't seem to be disturbing, with a touch of melancholy and sadness on top. A smile and a tear. But just as in real life, selling a house isn't particularly exciting and entertaining. That was for me the only downside of it all. But Freeman starring back again like this after a long time, made it bearable.
More reviews here : http://bit.ly/1KIdQMT
For the two protagonists alone, I necessarily wanted to see this movie. Not that I'm a big fan of Diana Keaton, who usually plays a corny, traditional mother in some romantic comedy where someone is getting married once again (a film such as "The Big Wedding"). Although I could appreciate her performance in "The Family Stone", even though she played again the mother hen. But "5 Flights up" was perfect for her. A serene and formal older woman who even in the most hectic and stressful situations, remains calm. She's hardened by the past when she made the decision to marry an Afro-American. Compared to that every setback is just peanuts.
I was particularly curious about how Morgan Freeman would play his part. After a succession of meaningless roles in both brilliant films as soon-to-be-forgotten films, like "Olympus Has Fallen", "Oblivion", "Now you see me", "Last Vegas", "Transcendence", "Lucy" and "Last Knights", it was once again time for this brilliant actor to being featured in an entire movie. And he lived up to my expectations. Flawlessly he acquitted himself of his task : the spouse who's still in love with his wife after all these years, the cheerful artist who rather withdraws into his studio while strangers are wandering through his flat, the worried owner of a pet that needs medical assistance (no matter what it costs) and the resolute decision maker who ultimately decides about what's rightfully his. Formidable performance.
Only the script is kind of dull to keep things interesting. Admittedly, the situations arising from the sale are frequently humorous and engaging. But a whole film just about selling an apartment with on the one hand the financial advantage and on the other hand a pile of memories that needs to be left behind, is still only limited material to work with. The message that this film conveys is that money can't replace nostalgic musings and feelings. A sunrise is nowhere the same and you'll have to forget certain habits and situations from the past. It's beautifully imaged with flashbacks that don't seem to be disturbing, with a touch of melancholy and sadness on top. A smile and a tear. But just as in real life, selling a house isn't particularly exciting and entertaining. That was for me the only downside of it all. But Freeman starring back again like this after a long time, made it bearable.
More reviews here : http://bit.ly/1KIdQMT
Charming, and somewhat sweet, but nothing too memorable.
Hellmant21 July 2015
'5 FLIGHTS UP': Three Stars (Out of Five)
Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton star in this drama flick, about an elderly couple that finally decide to move; out of the New York apartment they've spent their lives together in. The film was directed by Richard Loncraine and written by Charlie Peters. It was based on the 2009 novel, 'Heroic Measures' (by Jill Ciment), and it costars Cynthia Nixon (of 'SEX AND THE CITY' fame). I found the movie to be charming, and somewhat sweet, but nothing too memorable.
Freeman and Keaton play Alex and Ruth Carver; an older couple that's lived in the same apartment, in New York, all of their time together. They've finally decided to move; largely due to the fact that their apartment is five flights up, and their apartment building has no elevator. Everyone they meet, interested in their home, is rude and annoying. Alex really doesn't want to move; and the couple also has to deal with real-estate issues, and their dog's poor health.
There's not a lot to the film, other than some strong character development; and some even stronger acting. Freeman and Keaton are both fantastic, in the film together, and they have beautiful chemistry. Nixon is a scene-stealer, as well (and I've never seen 'SEX AND THE CITY'). There's never a lot going on, but the film is still always interesting; thanks largely to it's veteran cast.
Watch our movie review show 'MOVIE TALK' at: https://youtu.be/bOI7ZdxfHTQ
Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton star in this drama flick, about an elderly couple that finally decide to move; out of the New York apartment they've spent their lives together in. The film was directed by Richard Loncraine and written by Charlie Peters. It was based on the 2009 novel, 'Heroic Measures' (by Jill Ciment), and it costars Cynthia Nixon (of 'SEX AND THE CITY' fame). I found the movie to be charming, and somewhat sweet, but nothing too memorable.
Freeman and Keaton play Alex and Ruth Carver; an older couple that's lived in the same apartment, in New York, all of their time together. They've finally decided to move; largely due to the fact that their apartment is five flights up, and their apartment building has no elevator. Everyone they meet, interested in their home, is rude and annoying. Alex really doesn't want to move; and the couple also has to deal with real-estate issues, and their dog's poor health.
There's not a lot to the film, other than some strong character development; and some even stronger acting. Freeman and Keaton are both fantastic, in the film together, and they have beautiful chemistry. Nixon is a scene-stealer, as well (and I've never seen 'SEX AND THE CITY'). There's never a lot going on, but the film is still always interesting; thanks largely to it's veteran cast.
Watch our movie review show 'MOVIE TALK' at: https://youtu.be/bOI7ZdxfHTQ
'Who would have thought that the whole of my life's work would be worth less than the room it was painted in?'
gradyharp20 August 2015
It is so refreshing to watch a film with a contemporary story that focuses on older people and their choices and strengths instead of seeing them act foolish or pathetic. Based on Jill Ciment's book as adapted for the screen by Charlie Peters and directed with straightforward good taste by Richard Loncraine, this quiet little film is a wonderful platform for tow of our most respected actors – 69 year old Diane Keaton and 78 year old Morgan Freeman – who create an irresistible chemistry.
Briefly, long-time happily married couple Ruth and artist Alex Carver (Keaton and Freeman) who've spent their lives together in the same New York apartment become overwhelmed by personal and real estate-related issues when they plan to move away, having decided to cash in on their sought-after Brooklyn apartment. The story opens with one of the reasons they feel the need to move after 40 years in the '5 flights up' apartment with no elevator: their little dog Dorothy is having difficulty maneuvering the stairs and ends up with a slipped vertebral disc that requires a Vet's expertise and surgery. They engage Ruth's niece, real estate agent Lily (Cynthia Nixon, who is wonderfully, gushingly obnoxious) and the visits to the apartment begin – all manner of rather despicable lookie-loos traipse through and a decision must be made. Ruth and Alex find an apartment in Manhattan that is one the 9th floor and has an elevator, but issues arise that make them alter their initial decision.
Beautifully understated is the fact that Ruth and Alex are childless, entered an interracial marriage when it was not fashionable to do so, and have grown old together making every day count. They are wonderful and the film does them justice. It is such a pleasure to see two seasoned and gifted actors make such an impressive statement.
Recommended for all those who think happiness is dependent on social media based.
Briefly, long-time happily married couple Ruth and artist Alex Carver (Keaton and Freeman) who've spent their lives together in the same New York apartment become overwhelmed by personal and real estate-related issues when they plan to move away, having decided to cash in on their sought-after Brooklyn apartment. The story opens with one of the reasons they feel the need to move after 40 years in the '5 flights up' apartment with no elevator: their little dog Dorothy is having difficulty maneuvering the stairs and ends up with a slipped vertebral disc that requires a Vet's expertise and surgery. They engage Ruth's niece, real estate agent Lily (Cynthia Nixon, who is wonderfully, gushingly obnoxious) and the visits to the apartment begin – all manner of rather despicable lookie-loos traipse through and a decision must be made. Ruth and Alex find an apartment in Manhattan that is one the 9th floor and has an elevator, but issues arise that make them alter their initial decision.
Beautifully understated is the fact that Ruth and Alex are childless, entered an interracial marriage when it was not fashionable to do so, and have grown old together making every day count. They are wonderful and the film does them justice. It is such a pleasure to see two seasoned and gifted actors make such an impressive statement.
Recommended for all those who think happiness is dependent on social media based.
Good Acting, Pointless Plot.
phillipd9710 May 2015
Warning: Spoilers
5 Flights up is overall a decent movie about an old couple who decide its time for a change so they place there apartment for sale.
The movie is, not bad the acting by Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton was superb, however what missed the mark was the storyline I mean it was interesting and engaging at times, but thats about all it was, nothing changed in the movie the characters stayed the same which I find makes a movie a little boring and pointless.
If you want to see a movie with good strong acting this is it, but don't expect a complex feel good film with a plot that really makes you think because this is not it.
The movie is, not bad the acting by Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton was superb, however what missed the mark was the storyline I mean it was interesting and engaging at times, but thats about all it was, nothing changed in the movie the characters stayed the same which I find makes a movie a little boring and pointless.
If you want to see a movie with good strong acting this is it, but don't expect a complex feel good film with a plot that really makes you think because this is not it.
For adults...a serious look at enjoying being seniors
vincentlynch-moonoi7 November 2015
Warning: Spoilers
The joy of this film is simply watching 2 consummate actors -- Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton -- ply their craft. Oddly enough, I didn't like either of these actors when they were young. But in autumn, they are choice.
The premise of the film is that an aging mixed race couple are thinking of moving out of New York City...mostly because their apartment is now worth $1 million, but partly because their current residence is 5 flights up...not good when you're getting old. Meanwhile, their small dog has to have expensive surgery.
Korey Jackson is amazingly on-target as the young Morgan Freeman; I hope we see more of him. Claire van der Boom does well as the young Diane Keaton.
It's really quite a touching film, and I enjoyed it...except for the ending. Morgan Freeman's character is clearly getting old, and they turn down selling their 4 floor walk-up...despite the fact that old people can't walk that many levels of stairs...trust me, I know. Nevertheless, I recommend this film for mature audiences. What impressed me was what was not emphasized...something that you just need to get on your own -- that many of the guess who's coming to dinner couples undoubtedly lived happy lives despite all the haters.
The premise of the film is that an aging mixed race couple are thinking of moving out of New York City...mostly because their apartment is now worth $1 million, but partly because their current residence is 5 flights up...not good when you're getting old. Meanwhile, their small dog has to have expensive surgery.
Korey Jackson is amazingly on-target as the young Morgan Freeman; I hope we see more of him. Claire van der Boom does well as the young Diane Keaton.
It's really quite a touching film, and I enjoyed it...except for the ending. Morgan Freeman's character is clearly getting old, and they turn down selling their 4 floor walk-up...despite the fact that old people can't walk that many levels of stairs...trust me, I know. Nevertheless, I recommend this film for mature audiences. What impressed me was what was not emphasized...something that you just need to get on your own -- that many of the guess who's coming to dinner couples undoubtedly lived happy lives despite all the haters.
Ruth & Alex
kosmasp2 May 2016
Or still here. If you have two great actors like that in a movie, you can not go wrong. Watching them play off each other is a blast. Morgan Freeman might have aged (like we all do), but he's has a presence that can be felt. Drama might not be everyones cup of tea, but if it is, you should watch a couple trying to cope with the fact they are getting older and how to spend their time.
Also where to spend their time and if the lifestyle they are used to is still something they should be going after. It's easier to move into something smaller, although on the other hand it's always tough to leave something familiar behind. So while the stakes seem not really high (and they aren't, this is a light affair), the movie can be convincing, if only for the acting talent at hand
Also where to spend their time and if the lifestyle they are used to is still something they should be going after. It's easier to move into something smaller, although on the other hand it's always tough to leave something familiar behind. So while the stakes seem not really high (and they aren't, this is a light affair), the movie can be convincing, if only for the acting talent at hand
Possibley the tamest movie ever made
thekarmicnomad4 August 2015
Ruth & Alex are getting a little long in the tooth to handle the stairs to the apartment they bought when they were young. So they feel pressured to buy a new place.
This is exactly what happens. Expect no drama, no twists, no confrontations or hilarious antics. You really are just watching Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton buy a new house.
When the flash backs of their youth come they are fleeting and sparse.
Enjoyment of this movie depends greatly on the viewers mind-set. If you are feeling fragile or in the mood for something very gentle and subtle (this is as gentle and subtle as it gets)with out a hint of danger or drama then this is for you. If you are looking for something more (anything more) this is probably going to feel very, very long.
Great production, acting, the characters are interesting and endearing - but be prepared NOTHING happens.
This is exactly what happens. Expect no drama, no twists, no confrontations or hilarious antics. You really are just watching Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton buy a new house.
When the flash backs of their youth come they are fleeting and sparse.
Enjoyment of this movie depends greatly on the viewers mind-set. If you are feeling fragile or in the mood for something very gentle and subtle (this is as gentle and subtle as it gets)with out a hint of danger or drama then this is for you. If you are looking for something more (anything more) this is probably going to feel very, very long.
Great production, acting, the characters are interesting and endearing - but be prepared NOTHING happens.
Pointless
brad-keefe1021 May 2015
I expected a quirky little movie here. The summary seemed to be something that would interest me. Boy was I wrong.
So basically, an older couple is looking to sell their New York City (Brooklyn) apartment. Why? Well, because it has five flights of stairs and they are a little concerned about their health. OK. Reasonable enough. As far as I know, they have no other reason. They both do not particularly want to move, in fact they love their apartment. Right, so why are they moving? oh yea, the stairs.
The movie continues by showing how the couple moved to the apartment over 40 years ago, it shows flashbacks of their earlier years and all the fond memories they have. But, you know, 5 flights of stairs. The have an annoying as hell real estate agent who has an open house in their apartment. For some reason, everyone, except a sweet little girl are a$$holes. Everyone. I'm not sure why they made it this way, but they were all jerks. I didn't get that. Unless that's how the general populous of NYC is considered? No idea. Never been there Then they start looking for a new apartment. They find one they like, even though they say nothing will ever be as good as our apartment (then why the f*^k are you moving?!!!). I was almost shouting at the TV about how idiotic this move is! It's all about two people moving, who don't want to move. And if you can't guess what happens in the end? let me just say that there is no point to this movie. None.
Oh, and for some reason there's a dog who has surgery and a potential terrorist.
Pass.
So basically, an older couple is looking to sell their New York City (Brooklyn) apartment. Why? Well, because it has five flights of stairs and they are a little concerned about their health. OK. Reasonable enough. As far as I know, they have no other reason. They both do not particularly want to move, in fact they love their apartment. Right, so why are they moving? oh yea, the stairs.
The movie continues by showing how the couple moved to the apartment over 40 years ago, it shows flashbacks of their earlier years and all the fond memories they have. But, you know, 5 flights of stairs. The have an annoying as hell real estate agent who has an open house in their apartment. For some reason, everyone, except a sweet little girl are a$$holes. Everyone. I'm not sure why they made it this way, but they were all jerks. I didn't get that. Unless that's how the general populous of NYC is considered? No idea. Never been there Then they start looking for a new apartment. They find one they like, even though they say nothing will ever be as good as our apartment (then why the f*^k are you moving?!!!). I was almost shouting at the TV about how idiotic this move is! It's all about two people moving, who don't want to move. And if you can't guess what happens in the end? let me just say that there is no point to this movie. None.
Oh, and for some reason there's a dog who has surgery and a potential terrorist.
Pass.
An elderly couple contemplate moving from their home of 40 years for the sake of convenience.
Amari-Sali3 October 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Overview
While 5 Flights Up touches on a handful of social issues, like gentrification, racial profiling, ageism, and racism to a certain degree, it pretty much is a light film dealing with an older couple trying to decide what's next in their lives?
Characters & Story
For over 40 years Ruth (Diane Keaton/ Claire van der Boom) and Alex Carver (Morgan Freeman/ Korey Jackson) have lived in Brooklyn and have been married. This is through her parents not fully accepting their daughter married a black man; Alex having confidence issues when it comes to their art; as well as a slew of other issues. But being that the neighborhood is changing, Alex not being as young as he used to be, and their apartment being worth 100s of thousands of dollars, there is the temptation to move on. Thus leading Mr. and Mrs. Carver to ask Ruth's niece, Lily (Cynthia Nixon), to help them perhaps sell their home.
Praise
There are so many reasons to like this film. The first being that the relationship between Ruth and Alex, whether it is Freeman and Keaton, or van der Boom and Jackson, is undeniably cute. For whether we are watching Jackson court van der Boom, and see her challenge her mother and sister when it comes to being happy for her, or else watching them, 40 years later, still fiercely in love, and highly protective of one another, it truly makes you "awe" to the point of envy.
Then, on top of that, you have to appreciate the world presented in 5 Flights Up. One in which we see how Brooklyn is changing, and how many people are leaving in the process; how racial profiling of those of Islamic faith is being handled; and the different dynamics which come with the various perceptions people have due to age, race, and a handful of other things.
Last thing worth mentioning is, the film doesn't necessarily end with what you may predict. For while the ending isn't certainly out of left field, or dramatic, it does seem to imply that we are more so being given a slice of life rather than something overdone and handed the occasional dramatic moment done solely to keep the audience interested.
Criticism
Despite what usually would be a setup to call the film boring, this film isn't that. However, I will say that this isn't the type of film where neither Freeman nor Keaton are trying to really put on the type of performance which would lead to accolades or a new go to in their filmographies. If anything, they seem to be doing this film for the joy of being working actors, and perhaps working with someone new.
Outside of that, I must admit I wanted to see more of Zoe (Sterling Jerins), a girl Alex interacts with multiple times, for her relationship with Alex seemed quite cute. Also, considering Ruth and Alex don't have kids, and Zoe's situation, it would have been nice for her to be more than just someone Alex coincidentally saw twice in his life. But that critique is just a personal one.
Overall: TV Viewing
Consider this within the upper echelon of the TV Viewing label. For really, the only thing which kept this from being worth seeing is that, as much as I recognize the dog's importance, that subplot didn't do much for the film in my opinion. Then, when it comes to Ruth and Alex selling the apartment, and buying a new one, while seeing them as a couple was cute, them dealing with Lily, and trying to find a place, was perhaps the low point of the film. Low enough to keep this from being worth seeing.
While 5 Flights Up touches on a handful of social issues, like gentrification, racial profiling, ageism, and racism to a certain degree, it pretty much is a light film dealing with an older couple trying to decide what's next in their lives?
Characters & Story
For over 40 years Ruth (Diane Keaton/ Claire van der Boom) and Alex Carver (Morgan Freeman/ Korey Jackson) have lived in Brooklyn and have been married. This is through her parents not fully accepting their daughter married a black man; Alex having confidence issues when it comes to their art; as well as a slew of other issues. But being that the neighborhood is changing, Alex not being as young as he used to be, and their apartment being worth 100s of thousands of dollars, there is the temptation to move on. Thus leading Mr. and Mrs. Carver to ask Ruth's niece, Lily (Cynthia Nixon), to help them perhaps sell their home.
Praise
There are so many reasons to like this film. The first being that the relationship between Ruth and Alex, whether it is Freeman and Keaton, or van der Boom and Jackson, is undeniably cute. For whether we are watching Jackson court van der Boom, and see her challenge her mother and sister when it comes to being happy for her, or else watching them, 40 years later, still fiercely in love, and highly protective of one another, it truly makes you "awe" to the point of envy.
Then, on top of that, you have to appreciate the world presented in 5 Flights Up. One in which we see how Brooklyn is changing, and how many people are leaving in the process; how racial profiling of those of Islamic faith is being handled; and the different dynamics which come with the various perceptions people have due to age, race, and a handful of other things.
Last thing worth mentioning is, the film doesn't necessarily end with what you may predict. For while the ending isn't certainly out of left field, or dramatic, it does seem to imply that we are more so being given a slice of life rather than something overdone and handed the occasional dramatic moment done solely to keep the audience interested.
Criticism
Despite what usually would be a setup to call the film boring, this film isn't that. However, I will say that this isn't the type of film where neither Freeman nor Keaton are trying to really put on the type of performance which would lead to accolades or a new go to in their filmographies. If anything, they seem to be doing this film for the joy of being working actors, and perhaps working with someone new.
Outside of that, I must admit I wanted to see more of Zoe (Sterling Jerins), a girl Alex interacts with multiple times, for her relationship with Alex seemed quite cute. Also, considering Ruth and Alex don't have kids, and Zoe's situation, it would have been nice for her to be more than just someone Alex coincidentally saw twice in his life. But that critique is just a personal one.
Overall: TV Viewing
Consider this within the upper echelon of the TV Viewing label. For really, the only thing which kept this from being worth seeing is that, as much as I recognize the dog's importance, that subplot didn't do much for the film in my opinion. Then, when it comes to Ruth and Alex selling the apartment, and buying a new one, while seeing them as a couple was cute, them dealing with Lily, and trying to find a place, was perhaps the low point of the film. Low enough to keep this from being worth seeing.
Unmoving
ferdinand19329 May 2015
There are several ways to create dramatic interest in film, not all are reliant on the old theatrical modes. There are docudramas and movies that are like magazine stories, which narrate stories over several decades to give a complete tale.
Scorsese said once that he thought American movies were more like magazine articles with pictures in that they told a story rather than created drama. From the director of "Casino", which really is the magazine style movie par excellence, that is an insight.
It is possible to create tension and engagement with this style, even when reduced to a small episodic tale. In books this can work well because the author does the meta-narration, which is the interpretation of action. It is a difficult task to make cinematic and so it is with 5 Flights Up, or Ruth and Alex.
While this style may work on the page, in that clear, bland, non-style of glossy magazine commercial fiction, its lack of a center leaves the movie vacuous. Superficially, the story of moving apartments and juggling brokers might seem enough but it isn't. It's too mundane and property is a weak idea to make an entire movie function. Imagine if Lady Macbeth and the Thane of Cawdor had got into a castle moving story: she preoccupied with cleaning up the blood stains for the new tenants, he unable to move all his knives, shields and swords out to make the castle look bigger.
This is a small, dull film, with all the pace and visual qualities of wallpaper paste. It has frittered the talents of its cast. Ruth and Alex is a very slight story that didn't really deserve to be made into a film and doesn't deserve anyone's time.
Scorsese said once that he thought American movies were more like magazine articles with pictures in that they told a story rather than created drama. From the director of "Casino", which really is the magazine style movie par excellence, that is an insight.
It is possible to create tension and engagement with this style, even when reduced to a small episodic tale. In books this can work well because the author does the meta-narration, which is the interpretation of action. It is a difficult task to make cinematic and so it is with 5 Flights Up, or Ruth and Alex.
While this style may work on the page, in that clear, bland, non-style of glossy magazine commercial fiction, its lack of a center leaves the movie vacuous. Superficially, the story of moving apartments and juggling brokers might seem enough but it isn't. It's too mundane and property is a weak idea to make an entire movie function. Imagine if Lady Macbeth and the Thane of Cawdor had got into a castle moving story: she preoccupied with cleaning up the blood stains for the new tenants, he unable to move all his knives, shields and swords out to make the castle look bigger.
This is a small, dull film, with all the pace and visual qualities of wallpaper paste. It has frittered the talents of its cast. Ruth and Alex is a very slight story that didn't really deserve to be made into a film and doesn't deserve anyone's time.
A feel-good film with some respectful insight into real complications
StevePulaski24 August 2015
If I were to say that 5 Flights Up was a loosely structured film involving an aging couple, the real estate market, hectic home bidding, terrorism, a dog with lethal problems, interracial marriage, and painting, you'd probably be endlessly confused. However, I wouldn't be misleading you nor would I be shortchanging the film's story. For a film with an A-list cast and from a fairly large studio, it's strange for something like this to be so largely plot less and breezy, yet so thematically impacting. If nothing else, the film furthers my belief that you ultimately don't need a concrete plot or "point-A-to-point-B" style events to make an impacting film; you need strong characters or strong dialog, but if you have two, you're golden.
The film focuses on Ruth and Alex Carver (Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman), an older couple looking to sell their old-fashioned Brooklyn apartment through their real estate agent Lilly (Cynthia Nixon). Due to the apartment's location and one-of-a-kind structure, the spacious home could be worth as much as $1 million and, under current circumstances, both Ruth and Alex want to get as much money possible. Though it's evident that the couple have talked selling their apartment to death, one can tell that they're quietly heartbroken to be leaving it behind, especially Alex, who has made one of the rooms his workstation for his many paintings.
Both Ruth and Alex find themselves immersed in the world of real estate buying and selling upon holding an open house and exploring other apartments in the city. They find themselves bombarded with potential buyers they are either not personally fond of or questioning whether or not they will take care of the home and love it as much as they did. While this search goes on, Ruth and Alex's dog winds up falling prey to a ruptured disc in her back, requiring expensive surgery in addition to the repeated coverage of a potential terrorist attack perpetrated by an assumed Muslim extremist when a large oil tanker is left on the Williamsburg Bridge.
Just by this description, one gets a feel of the looseness in 5 Flights Up. It would appear that writer Charles Peters attempted to make a film that was invested in real-life situations, particularly the kind that come about when trying to sell a home or an apartment in the wake of the biggest housing crisis in American history. Few films I can recall have painted the constant struggle and fuss over selling and buying a home in such a powerfully telling way, right down to the incessant "bidding wars" between interested clients and the dictation of a real estate agent. Such an experience is an endless cycle of monotony, false leads, and confusion and director Richard Loncraine portrays it as if the characters are operating on a field of landmines.
There's also examination of the generation gap here in a boldly subtle way. Consider Freeman trying to prove himself and his abilities to much younger, disinterested art buyers, or even the multitude of spoiled and unruly young guests that come through his home. Ruth and Alex are on their way out in numerous respects in this film, but as the film gets going, we see that they're soon to be out of their home, their element, and most importantly, time to prove themselves in a world that's rapidly changing and quickly leaving people like them behind.
Much has been made about the terrorist subplot which, in many scenes, does come out of left field and provides for a jarring tonal shift. However, if one looks at it like in the same way an announcement of any kind by Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellin sends financial markets into a tizzy, one can see its relevance, even if it does add a touch of awkwardness to the film's story.
5 Flights Up may not have the narrative structure of its contemporaries, but it damn sure understands the current state of baby boomers and sentimentality better than a lot of them. It's a film of moments and strong lead performances, with Keaton and Freeman proving through each collective and low-key scene why their performances are always highly praised. While this is a film along the lines of the feel-good flick you're likely predicting, just know if you're going to have your emotions tickled by a movie, you might as well have it done by a film that's respectful of its characters and somewhat insightful.
Starring: Diane Keaton, Morgan Freeman, and Cynthia Nixon. Directed by: Richard Loncraine.
The film focuses on Ruth and Alex Carver (Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman), an older couple looking to sell their old-fashioned Brooklyn apartment through their real estate agent Lilly (Cynthia Nixon). Due to the apartment's location and one-of-a-kind structure, the spacious home could be worth as much as $1 million and, under current circumstances, both Ruth and Alex want to get as much money possible. Though it's evident that the couple have talked selling their apartment to death, one can tell that they're quietly heartbroken to be leaving it behind, especially Alex, who has made one of the rooms his workstation for his many paintings.
Both Ruth and Alex find themselves immersed in the world of real estate buying and selling upon holding an open house and exploring other apartments in the city. They find themselves bombarded with potential buyers they are either not personally fond of or questioning whether or not they will take care of the home and love it as much as they did. While this search goes on, Ruth and Alex's dog winds up falling prey to a ruptured disc in her back, requiring expensive surgery in addition to the repeated coverage of a potential terrorist attack perpetrated by an assumed Muslim extremist when a large oil tanker is left on the Williamsburg Bridge.
Just by this description, one gets a feel of the looseness in 5 Flights Up. It would appear that writer Charles Peters attempted to make a film that was invested in real-life situations, particularly the kind that come about when trying to sell a home or an apartment in the wake of the biggest housing crisis in American history. Few films I can recall have painted the constant struggle and fuss over selling and buying a home in such a powerfully telling way, right down to the incessant "bidding wars" between interested clients and the dictation of a real estate agent. Such an experience is an endless cycle of monotony, false leads, and confusion and director Richard Loncraine portrays it as if the characters are operating on a field of landmines.
There's also examination of the generation gap here in a boldly subtle way. Consider Freeman trying to prove himself and his abilities to much younger, disinterested art buyers, or even the multitude of spoiled and unruly young guests that come through his home. Ruth and Alex are on their way out in numerous respects in this film, but as the film gets going, we see that they're soon to be out of their home, their element, and most importantly, time to prove themselves in a world that's rapidly changing and quickly leaving people like them behind.
Much has been made about the terrorist subplot which, in many scenes, does come out of left field and provides for a jarring tonal shift. However, if one looks at it like in the same way an announcement of any kind by Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellin sends financial markets into a tizzy, one can see its relevance, even if it does add a touch of awkwardness to the film's story.
5 Flights Up may not have the narrative structure of its contemporaries, but it damn sure understands the current state of baby boomers and sentimentality better than a lot of them. It's a film of moments and strong lead performances, with Keaton and Freeman proving through each collective and low-key scene why their performances are always highly praised. While this is a film along the lines of the feel-good flick you're likely predicting, just know if you're going to have your emotions tickled by a movie, you might as well have it done by a film that's respectful of its characters and somewhat insightful.
Starring: Diane Keaton, Morgan Freeman, and Cynthia Nixon. Directed by: Richard Loncraine.
Boring, nothing ever happens, don't watch
play-me-a-symphony13 September 2020
Warning: Spoilers
So, the actors are great, but nothing ever happens. The plot is horrible, so boring, it's unbelievable. The flashbacks are redundant, they might have been good as a separate movie, but they add no new insight or information to the current movie. The problem (going up the stairs for aging people) never gets solved. The terrorist should have come to an open house, at least, and asked for shelter insuring some interesting interplay between the characters, the dog story should have led to some cool discovery, such as a hidden elevator. Even the tea with the little girl never materializes. The scene with taking off the model's glasses is abusive, by the way, as she says, she won't be able to see anything without them. They should have used a hat instead of the glasses. Badly written, all around.
Minor but pleasant adult comedy
Buddy-5126 February 2016
Written and directed by Charlie Peters and Richard Loncraine, respectively, "Five Flights Up" is an amiable and low-keyed urban comedy about an aging couple reluctantly selling the New York apartment they've lived in for forty years. Though Ruth sees this as an opportunity to start a new chapter in their lives, Alex, a seemingly only moderately successful painter, fights to hold onto the place, making subtle little efforts to sabotage the sale.
Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman make for very pleasant company indeed, and, while the movie's insights into aging, relationships and end-of-life downsizing aren't exactly earth-shattering, they are certainly more than we customarily get from romantic comedies set at the opposite end of the age spectrum. Yet, while it acknowledges the troubles that come with aging, the film happily doesn't fixate on them to the exclusion of all else.
Above all, the movie shows how hard it can be to leave a home and a neighborhood after a lifetime spent setting down roots there.
And anyone who's ever endured the bureaucratic nightmare involved in buying and selling a home will find much to relate to in the movie.
Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman make for very pleasant company indeed, and, while the movie's insights into aging, relationships and end-of-life downsizing aren't exactly earth-shattering, they are certainly more than we customarily get from romantic comedies set at the opposite end of the age spectrum. Yet, while it acknowledges the troubles that come with aging, the film happily doesn't fixate on them to the exclusion of all else.
Above all, the movie shows how hard it can be to leave a home and a neighborhood after a lifetime spent setting down roots there.
And anyone who's ever endured the bureaucratic nightmare involved in buying and selling a home will find much to relate to in the movie.
Comfortable
j-lacerra25 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This movie, despite its paper-thin plot, gave me the pleasure of watching two ultimate pro actors perform. And it did so without waving guns, without tough cops, car chases, or extreme language/sex/violence. The story is about selling their apartment in Brooklyn, mainly because it is five flights up stairs in a non-elevator building. Frankly, I did not think such extreme walk-ups existed; I lived in Brooklyn and never heard of such a thing. Anyway, this story goes over the couple's attempt to not only sell their apartment, but to buy another, so they can live in an accessible space, as they are getting old. On the periphery of the action is a side story of a possible terrorist loose in the neighborhood. This produces a smidge of tension (will he appear and take our heroes hostage?) This side plot is useless and unnecessary. BTW, is it required to have Freeman narrate every movie he's in? 5 Flights Up is tame and pleasant, if not compelling.
Sweet and warm....
byron-11614 June 2020
Not-so-serious short and sweet film with nice life lessons
EpimetheusA127 March 2019
I really enjoyed this film. As another reviewer mentioned, it's not really memorable, but that doesn't stop this from being worth the watch.
A couple decides to sell their apartment and with the help of the wife's niece, they begin their journey as they put their apartment on the market.
This film was warm without being too corny. Sure, the ending felt a little predictable and yes, there were a few plot-lines that hit dead ends before they could fully develop, but the main story, as well as the characters and those actors that portrayed them, were all very good; the issues and themes are those of racism, love, anguish, and life. Some of the lessons in this film are important today, particularly the one in the scene where they go to make the bid on the other apartment.
If you're looking for a not-so-serious film that is short and sweet with a great leading cast, this is the one for you.
A couple decides to sell their apartment and with the help of the wife's niece, they begin their journey as they put their apartment on the market.
This film was warm without being too corny. Sure, the ending felt a little predictable and yes, there were a few plot-lines that hit dead ends before they could fully develop, but the main story, as well as the characters and those actors that portrayed them, were all very good; the issues and themes are those of racism, love, anguish, and life. Some of the lessons in this film are important today, particularly the one in the scene where they go to make the bid on the other apartment.
If you're looking for a not-so-serious film that is short and sweet with a great leading cast, this is the one for you.
Overall a Nice Film but...
molatovbubblebath13 January 2020
Lousy Movie
josepablome11 July 2015
Warning: Spoilers
The movie is about an old couple who wants to sell their apartment because they're tired of walking 5 flights of stairs every day, and finally end up not moving because it turns out they liked their old apartment. But nothing interesting happens in the meantime, besides their dog getting sick and recovering at the end. No humor, no conflict, no drama, no intense moments. You expect something will happen, but it doesn't. The plot is completely flat and mundane. Even the message it tries to convey (how sentimental value is more important once you reach a certain age), it does it poorly. The only thing worth watching this movie are the beautiful shots of New York.
Quaint
joshua-george22 August 2019
It's a nice, quaint little movie. Somewhat memorable characters, mostly the dog. Though, most of the movie It just seemed like watching "A Day In The Life" for this elder couple, which seemed a little odd in some parts. But the plot came full circle in a somewhat unique way compared to other movies, and I did enjoy it for the most part.
The Dialogue is Painfully Fake
gkrystop24 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This movie was TERRIBLE!!! If I was Richard Loncraine I would never make a movie ever again. The scene I have to talk about is when they are arguing in the street after leaving the vets office and she wants to save the dog. Any old couple like them probably would've owned a few dogs in their lifetime by now. I don't buy that people who have been together THAT long would not be on the same page about something like this. They are arguing like newlyweds or strangers honestly. The characters don't seem to know each other at all but Richard Loncraine tries to make it seem like they do by having them blurt out random lines like "honey did ya take your pill yet?" in the weirdest moments. This movie is so nonorganic. It's painful. It makes me feel like Richard Loncraine is not an actual human and he's an alien and this is his take on a "human relationship". Richard Loncraine I wish you would see my review so badly because you need this feedback desperately. I'm scared that you were just able to make this entire movie and no one said "Hey Richard, this isn't good" The whole process of filming the movie no one was real or honest with you. You have bad employees and fake friends. Everyone who watched this movie, including myself, lost actual brain cells. Making this movie felt like a crime against humanity.
Wonderful, humorous drama about aging and change.
rannynm30 April 2015
From the story line, it may seem that this film will be boring to kids. But, when I started watching this film I fell in love with it. Morgan Freeman's perfect timing of jokes and Diane Keeton's wonderful and priceless emotions make this film entertaining and heartfelt from the very start to the last second.
It is a bit hard to say what the main genre is. Of course, there is a lot of romance between the two characters, Alex (Morgan Freeman) and Ruth (Diane Keeton), there is also that funny side that makes it all that more enjoyable. And, there is still a serious dramatic side which keeps you on the edge of your seat till the end.
The story starts when an elderly couple, Ruth and Alex, live in a high up, massive apartment in New York City, Brooklyn actually. However, the five flight of stairs they need to take is getting more and more challenging so they decide to move to a location with an elevator. To add to the challenges, their dog is in the hospital undergoing treatment for spinal injury.
The director, Richard Loncraine makes this movie feel authentic and rustic and also shows how current society stereotypes elderly people, how they truly feel about it and how wrong it is. The cast is wonderful and the acting is just superior with serious and comedy scenes mixed together and standing out all the time. I also like how they lightly touch upon problems of the past as well as problems of today. For example, Ruth and Alex got married in a time when bi- racial couples were not welcomed with open arms. Then it shows how today a gay couple is making an offer on a house. They submit it along with a note telling how they tried to adopt a child and finally were able to adopt one. It is something Ruth and Alex wanted to do when they were younger but were denied.
My favorite scene is when they have an open house to sell their apartment and a huge crowd of people comes through, looking at everything and touching everything. Alex doesn't like it but Ruth tries to see the positive side but fails. I like that scene because it shows how the couple's life isn't perfect and also makes the film feel very real. Not only this moment does that but many others as well.
This film has perhaps several moments of adult content but none that is too mature. I recommend it to kids ages 10 to18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed by Gerry O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, go to kidsfirst dot org.
It is a bit hard to say what the main genre is. Of course, there is a lot of romance between the two characters, Alex (Morgan Freeman) and Ruth (Diane Keeton), there is also that funny side that makes it all that more enjoyable. And, there is still a serious dramatic side which keeps you on the edge of your seat till the end.
The story starts when an elderly couple, Ruth and Alex, live in a high up, massive apartment in New York City, Brooklyn actually. However, the five flight of stairs they need to take is getting more and more challenging so they decide to move to a location with an elevator. To add to the challenges, their dog is in the hospital undergoing treatment for spinal injury.
The director, Richard Loncraine makes this movie feel authentic and rustic and also shows how current society stereotypes elderly people, how they truly feel about it and how wrong it is. The cast is wonderful and the acting is just superior with serious and comedy scenes mixed together and standing out all the time. I also like how they lightly touch upon problems of the past as well as problems of today. For example, Ruth and Alex got married in a time when bi- racial couples were not welcomed with open arms. Then it shows how today a gay couple is making an offer on a house. They submit it along with a note telling how they tried to adopt a child and finally were able to adopt one. It is something Ruth and Alex wanted to do when they were younger but were denied.
My favorite scene is when they have an open house to sell their apartment and a huge crowd of people comes through, looking at everything and touching everything. Alex doesn't like it but Ruth tries to see the positive side but fails. I like that scene because it shows how the couple's life isn't perfect and also makes the film feel very real. Not only this moment does that but many others as well.
This film has perhaps several moments of adult content but none that is too mature. I recommend it to kids ages 10 to18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed by Gerry O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, go to kidsfirst dot org.
Medicinal for Medicare Members
Inoffensive Slice of Senior Life
LeonLouisRicci15 July 2016
A Happy Coupling of Solid, Dependable, Aging Thespians are given a Movie that does nothing to Challenge Their Abilities, in Fact it doesn't Challenge the Audience that much either.
The Plot is Interwoven with Enough Ingredients to keep the Interest as it Taxi's from Gracefully Aging in an ever Changing World, Interracial Marriage, Terrorism, Childless Families with a Pet Surrogate, the Volatile Real Estate Market (specifically NYC), and a Few Sprinkles on Top.
The most Charming Character comes in the Form of a Little Girl who is as Nice as Spice wearing both Naivete (turntables), and a Gift ("I know these things."). Her Part in the Story is very Brief, but Memorable. She is a Contrast to the other Characters that Bring with Them expected Adult Baggage.
The Movie is Warm, has some Edge, and is Obviously Targeted for the Multitude of Baby Boomers Populating America. It is not Jaw Dropping Insightful on Anything and is more of an Easy Going Slice of Life with some Human Drama Nicely Paced and Well Mounted.
Overall, it's a Slightly Better than Average Mainstream Movie with a Liberal Lean and is Inoffensive and Maybe even Medicinal for Medicare Members.
Note...Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton Fans will not be disappointed.
The Plot is Interwoven with Enough Ingredients to keep the Interest as it Taxi's from Gracefully Aging in an ever Changing World, Interracial Marriage, Terrorism, Childless Families with a Pet Surrogate, the Volatile Real Estate Market (specifically NYC), and a Few Sprinkles on Top.
The most Charming Character comes in the Form of a Little Girl who is as Nice as Spice wearing both Naivete (turntables), and a Gift ("I know these things."). Her Part in the Story is very Brief, but Memorable. She is a Contrast to the other Characters that Bring with Them expected Adult Baggage.
The Movie is Warm, has some Edge, and is Obviously Targeted for the Multitude of Baby Boomers Populating America. It is not Jaw Dropping Insightful on Anything and is more of an Easy Going Slice of Life with some Human Drama Nicely Paced and Well Mounted.
Overall, it's a Slightly Better than Average Mainstream Movie with a Liberal Lean and is Inoffensive and Maybe even Medicinal for Medicare Members.
Note...Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton Fans will not be disappointed.
What a bore!
dstanwyck28 April 2015
And, of course, a disappointment. With both Keaton and Freeman in it, you'd at least hope for if not expect a winner. They usually come across, but this time out they could have been twiddling their thumbs for the scene to finish and the entire film to come to an end. Hackneyed, stereotypical older couple who've lived on love all their life and haven't seemed to benefit from it. And even worse were the apartment seekers, one duller and more idiotic than the next. The secondary theme with a kind of terrorist was just noisy and in the way, although pretty much everything was in the way. The actors playing the stars as younger selves (Claire van der Boom as a young Keaton was spot on) were better at it and both Cynthia Nixon and Carrie Preston played well. But all in all, something that was meant to obviously be a feel good movie succeeded in making me feel worse.
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