Miss Guinevere Pettigrew (Frances McDormand) is a middle-aged governess who finds herself sitting in 1939 London, out of a job and simply out of options. Without so much as a meal, Miss Pettigrew decides that for the first time in over twenty years, she is going to do things on her terms and truly live the life that she deserves. So, while at her temp office, Miss Pettigrew intercepts an employment assignment outside of her comfort level, one as a "˜social secretary.' Arriving at a penthouse apartment Miss Pettigrew is thrown into a life of glamour, money and social acceptance as she shares the life of American actress and singer Delysia Lafosse (Amy Adams). However, the day isn't all about Delysia as Miss Pettigrew is forced to look at her own life from a distance and realize that there is more to life than serving others.
Suffering from a predictable plot and an uneventful story, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day fails to prevail on its actors alone and becomes more of a been-there-done-that tale than anything else.
The most disappointing part about this film is its premises. Taken from the novel written by Winifred Watson, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day does contain some potential; however, it fails to make the fateful leap from page to screen. For one, the film lacks activity. Taking a governess and having her live the life of luxury and glamour for a day could easily contain some excitement, fireworks even; however, this film didn't allow any of that to form. Instead we are greeted with two polar opposites in our two leads, and though their differences are what bring them together, it is quite obvious that neither of the two would be paired together in real life.
But regardless of the story I have to comment on the work of both Francis McDormand and Amy Adams. Francis McDormand, most known for her work in Almost Famous, turns in a stellar performance as the down-on-her-luck Guinevere. Coming across as desperate, anti-social woman, McDormand brings Guinevere to life, creating sympathy and a sense of realism to the film.
Opposite McDormand is the always appealing Amy Adams as the aspiring singer/dancer Delysia Lafosse. Known for her take on Giselle in Disney's Enchanted, Amy Adams has clearly set the stage for a strong career. And though she is cute, adorable and sexy in this film, I have to admit that she was unsuccessful in drawing attention aware from its lack of plot. Either way, both actresses did an amazing job in their roles, saving the film from absolute misery.
With that said I do want to say that although I saw this film as a waste of talent and potential, I do understand and feel that women will find this film appealing. It isn't showy and it isn't fast paced, but rather a relaxing time for people to enjoy a character centered story. However, be careful, as stated before, it isn't anything special, so buy a ticket at your own discretion, or do what I would do"¦wait for DVD.
