Nessie

In 1996, a film titled Loch Ness, starring Ted Danson and Joely Richardson, was released. While it appears the public at large has forgotten this romance-drama-fantasy, I fondly recall it. The serene slice-of-life atmosphere of that almost 30-year-old flick is given a comedic makeover in co-writer/director Robbie Moffat’s Nessie.

Upon passing, a United States millionaire leaves his beloved town of Loch Ness $50 million. Word of this windfall leaves the townsfolk jubilant and exhilarated. Shortly after the life-changing news, village council chairman Geordie (Jason Harvey) is told that the will is being contested by the departed man’s son, Brad (Patrick Kilpatrick). Understandably, this news dampens everyone’s spirits, though Jimmy (John Michie) is perked up by the arrival of Heather (Tanya Fear). The two share instant chemistry and get to know each other well over Jimmy’s tour of the loch. Heather even gets on with Jimmy’s ill daughter Alice (Edith Glad).

Unfortunately, Heather’s secret threatens this possible romance: She’s the attorney representing Brad in contesting the will. But as she gets to know everyone there, the lawyer begins to have a change of heart. Will she do her job and destroy this town’s livelihood, or can she help the sweet citizens find a way to keep what is rightfully theirs via the will?

“…a United States millionaire leaves his beloved town of Loch Ness $50 million…the will is being contested…”

Nessie tells a somewhat formulaic story. There are no surprises here, as each beat follows the expected trajectory. Of course, Heather has a secret, and of course, it comes out at a most inopportune time. So, it stands to reason that Heather is one with the plan to help save the town and prove herself. It’s all safe and expected, but that does not mean it isn’t fun.

In fact, the screenplay by Moffat, Tim Churchill, and Catherine O’Reilly gets by on sheer charm and sweetness, highly reminiscent of the best comedies from across the pond, Waking Ned Devine and Saving Grace, to name but a few. There’s an innocence to everything that happens, and all the characters, even Brad, are likable or at least relatable. While there’s not enough money in the world for me to explain what is medically wrong with Alice, the concern Jimmy, Geordie, and others have for her well-being is genuine and heartfelt.

A lot of the gentleness that permeates Nessie stems from the cast. Fear is instantly likable and shares strong chemistry with Michie. For his part, Michie fantastically captures the heart of the narrative. Kilpatrick is having fun as the slightly over-the-top villain while also showcasing a tender side in some quieter moments. Harvey is good as the straight man against the more colorful side characters, showcasing a love of the town that gives stakes to whether or not they get the inheritance.

Nessie is a cute movie that is wholesome fun for the entire family. The plot is simple and predictable, but the characters’ sweetness more than makes up for it. The cast is great and radiates warmth and innocence, which are crucial to the motion picture’s success.