The film’s slow pace, uninteresting characters, rambling conversations, and fragmented script fail to live up to the praise surrounding it. It seems like one of those independent productions that has gathered a devoted following. People speak about this movie with such reverence, as if it were an undeniable triumph. I went in without preconceived notions, which was fortunate; while I did see some positive qualities, I’m convinced it's been significantly overpraised. The fact that it’s largely faded from memory is proof enough! Aside from fans and film enthusiasts who know everything—or invent things when they don’t—who actually remembers this movie? The story itself is quite straightforward: set in a quiet Scottish village nestled along a small bay with a beach, the narrative centers on a wealthy oil executive's plan to purchase the area for a large refinery and tanker terminal. The residents are eager to sell their properties for top dollar, but two individuals object: a marine biologist who wants to protect and study the local environment, and an elderly man who owns a significant portion of the beach. The film held promise, but it ultimately lacks substance and a well-crafted script. Too much time is devoted to lifeless conversations about comets, constellations, and awkward flirtations. The plot also stretches believability; a project like this would never be so easily accepted, as there are always those who oppose it due to financial concerns, environmental worries, or simple sentimentality. Director Bill Forsyth seemed to overlook the script's weaknesses, and he wasn’t particularly skilled at directing the actors either. The cast is talented, but he didn't know how to utilize them effectively. Peter Riegert does his best, but lacks charisma and feels like a forgettable lead, appearing more uncomfortable in his role than his character does in the field, far removed from an office setting. Peter Capaldi doesn’t fare much better, and Jenny Seagrove is essentially just a decorative presence. Fulton Mackay manages to offer something more substantial, though he has limited screen time, and the same can be said for Burt Lancaster, who spends considerable portions of the film off-screen. A poorly constructed script, pointless dialogue intended to pad out the running time, underdeveloped characters unable to engage us… could there be anything about the technical aspects that redeems this film? Yes. The cinematography is quite good, showcasing the beauty of the Highlands. The set design and costumes are also well done, and the music creates a pleasant atmosphere. However, is that enough to justify the hype surrounding this movie and consider it a remarkable achievement? I don’t believe so.

Source on TMDB