The Lost Husband

The Lost Husband, released in 2020, is a heartwarming romantic drama starring Leslie Bibb, Josh Duhamel and Nora Dunn. Directed by Vicky Wight, the film is adapted from the novel of the same name written by Katherine Center. The story revolves around a young widow named Libby, who is played by Bibb, as she struggles to navigate through grief and rediscover herself while living on a farm with her uncle and two children.

The film begins with a tumultuous chapter in Libby's life, where she feels lost and disconnected from the world since the death of her husband. To escape from her reality, she moves in with her Aunt on a farm in rural Texas with her two young children, Abby and Tank. There, she reconnects with her estranged uncle and cousin and finds solace in the simple ways of farm life. Leslie Bibb's portrayal of Libby is heartfelt and authentic, bringing depth to the character's relatable journey of finding herself while searching for a new sense of purpose after dealing with the loss of someone she loved.

The plot takes a turn when Libby meets James, portrayed by Josh Duhamel, who is the farm's new manager. A rugged and handsome man, James and Libby quickly strike up a connection that is both surprising and delightful. While it would be very easy for the movie to fall into the tired trope of the widowed woman falling for the handsome man that comes into her life, the nuanced and authentic pacing of the film keeps the arc from feeling cliched or rushed. Bibb and Duhamel's chemistry is undeniable, making the subtle way the relationship grows all the more endearing.

As the story progresses, Libby learns to let go of the past and embrace the present. Together with James, she discovers the beauty of farm life and the joy of what it feels like to be loved and recognized once again. The love story between Libby and James is sweet and enchanting, as both actors portray their emotions with sincerity and depth. As much as the film is about love, it is also about family, both the one that you are born into and the one that you make for yourself. This sentiment is captured perfectly in the depiction of Libby's relationship with her aunt, played by Nora Dunn, and her quirky cousin.

The cinematography is breathtakingly beautiful, emphasizing the importance of the farm's natural landscapes in Libby's emotional journey. The film's soundtrack is also a pleasure to experience, with a great mix of soulful country music and lively pop songs that set the mood of each scene perfectly.

Overall, The Lost Husband is a moving and entertaining film about finding oneself amidst loss and hardships. Though the story is not overly complex, it offers a relatable and engaging narrative that is supported by solid performances from the cast, gorgeous cinematography, and an excellent score. The film is a must-watch for anyone who loves a heartwarming romance or is looking for a feel-good movie to cuddle up with.