In late-1970s suburban London, Chris and Marion have settled into a comfortable yet all-too-predictable middle-class existence. Chris receives an unexpected visit from his free-spirited friend Toni, a reunion that reminds him of a more carefree time in 1960s Paris. Now, with lingering doubts about his marriage bubbling up, Chris must make the choice between revisiting his youthful abandon with Toni or facing the here and now with Marion.
Acting
Young Bale's simmering restlessness is *chef's kiss*.
Writing
Julian Barnes adaptation with literary bite.
Director
Philip Saville
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The title refers to Metroland, the suburban London commuter belt—marketed as 'rural' living with city access, it became a symbol of aspirational mediocrity.
Christian Bale filmed this between 'The Portrait of a Lady' and 'Velvet Goldmine'—his 'sad British men in beautiful rooms' era.
GB
