Not So Long Ago

In the nascent bustle of 1850s New York City, 'Not So Long Ago' introduces us to a young woman whose romantic ideals are largely shaped by the sentimental novels she consumes. Her quest for a love mirroring these literary fantasies leads her to two distinct suitors: a grounded, sincere man from the city's industrious Bowery district, and a polished, aristocratic gentleman. The film, rather than deeply exploring the emotional complexities of her choice, prefers to immerse the viewer in the era's nascent technological advancements and sartorial elegance. We observe the whimsical debut of the tandem bicycle and an inventor's fervent pursuit of the horseless carriage, all while the narrative gently encourages a nostalgic longing for a period often perceived as simpler, focusing more on period charm than profound character development or dramatic tension.