The story has been described variedly by my friends as "Stalin meets Janice from 'Friends'", "Sound of music if they'd been pro-nazi", and "You can change any man, even an evil dictator". Basically, a sweet and hapless New York beautician (with appauling dress sense) finds herself employed as a governess to the children of Stalin-esque dictator Timothy Dalton, who is very growly and relies greatly on the Cult of Personality. At first they clash quite dramatically, most notably over the relationship his eldest daughter has with a young revolutionary. After a while though, the contept turns to desire, the snide remarks to flirty comments, and the whole thing goes through the motions of your average romantic comedy.

What sets it apart from most other Rom-Coms is the amazing (and rediculous) setting. I mean, it's all very well having two people in the opposites attract scenario, but when ones a tyrannical dictator it pushes the boundaries of sanity. In here, to me, lies it's genius. It could be seen as a encapsulation of the east-west culture shock. Or it could be seen as a laugh.

I would highly recommend this film. In a world of bland romantic slush, this somehow is sublimely rediculous.


The Beautician and the laughable plot!   January 19, 2005
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

You may remember Fran Drescher from a series called THE NANNY. Fran played a beautician cum housekeeper who fell in love with the boss. Well here's a film of amazing similarity only this time with Timothy Dalton in tow taking a second place to Fran's outlandish character.

Whilst you could describe this as a run of the mill love story, both Fran and Timothy add a certain sparkle, that sort of sparkle that ensures you enjoy the plot and of course, the one liners and all telling facial expressions from the talented Ms Drescher.

A complete joy and pleasure to watch, well acted and I won't tell you about the ending - you'll just have to buy the DVD!!

Overall, a perfect film for unwinding and having a laugh with friends.


Funny!   February 18, 2004
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

If you like comedies with a drop of romance, you won't be disappointed. Some would say it's a bad remake of The Sound of Music, only Fran Drescher's character is not a nun, but a no-nonsense beautician. Watch your ears when she speaks, though!
A good, funny movie, with a predictable end. For lonely Saturday nights or P.J. parites with old friends.