This is a beguiling film in more ways than one.

This sharply scripted study of a bereaved woman who literally wishes her partner back from the grave is an impressive directorial bow by British playwright Anthony Minghella.

As a metaphor for the experience of bereavement, the conceit is over-extended, though Stevenson almost makes it work.

Blending raw observations with wry humor — and anchored by two leads with genuine chemistry — this is a profoundly moving and rewarding movie.