"My Life So Far" (1999) is a subtle, smart, and amusing coming-of-age story set in Scotland. Around 10 or 11 years old, Fraser lives with his family on a large British estate in 1930. The household includes a strong matriarch, Gammy (Rosemary Harris), domestic staff, and his father, Edward (Colin Firth), along with his wife played by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. A visit from elderly Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell) and his young French fiancé, Heloise (Irène Jacob), sparks fascination in both Fraser and his dad. Based on a true story, the film takes place in rural Scotland nearly a decade after World War One and as the Great Depression began. Though told through the boy’s perspective, it's not intended for children; despite an initially lighthearted feel, there is considerable material that will appeal to adult viewers. One critic described the movie as lacking a traditional plot, which isn’t entirely inaccurate, but things become more compelling in the second half when various storylines converge. It shares similarities with "The Secret Garden" (1993), both being set on British country estates around the turn of the century. While “The Secret Garden” might be considered better, this film ultimately won me over despite my initial doubts. Fraser’s journey to adulthood parallels his father's own personal growth as an adult in his thirties. Edward is a likable inventor who runs a sphagnum moss business; he’s entertaining and preaches at church but resists change and dismisses jazz music as evil. His faith is challenged by Heloise's arrival, revealing weaknesses, and he can’t conceal his infatuation from his wife. It wasn't until after seeing the film that I recognized its intelligence. It conveys its message through depicting the daily life of the Pettigrew family during one season in 1930. For example, Edward is correct about Beethoven’s genius but misguided regarding jazz. While he has admirable qualities, his hypocrisy is undeniable. This isn't just about a beautiful woman; it’s about the importance of character and fidelity. These are merely a couple of illustrations. It’s one of those films that likely improves with repeated viewings because of the potential for discovery and its overall entertainment value. The film runs for 1 hour, 38 minutes, and was filmed in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. GRADE: B+ ***SPOILER ALERT*** (Do not read further unless you've seen the film). Did Edward have sexual relations with Heloise? No. Edward made advances toward Heloise in the moss loft, but she respectfully declined him. Later, during a heated argument, he tells his brother-in-law, Morris, that they had slept together because Morris was his rival for the estate; however, this is a lie. We know this because Heloise clearly rejected his advances. Edward lied to spite his rival and cause marital problems, as well as to retaliate against her rejection. It’s important to note that Heloise never acted inappropriately; she's almost saintly and even subtly rebukes Edward's hypocrisy at dinner. Edward’s lie was a dishonorable act that diminished my respect for him, but it stemmed from his pent-up frustrations. Fortunately, he later sincerely repents, and his wife forgives him, leading to a happy marriage. I hope he apologized to both Morris and Heloise as well.

Source on TMDB