Taken entirely on its own, and putting a man of Barbara's age in her place, I think most people would grin and think something like "The old dog!" But as she's a woman, it felt somehow sinister - "creepy" is perhaps the better word. Just saying.
shareA man would be seen as more creepy if he approached younger women in the park.
shareBarbara seemed more predatory than a man, I think. It's no surprise to see a man, even an old codger, approach a young woman with an ulterior movie, but it's squicky to see Barbara do it.
Time of your life, huh, kid?
I think throughout the film we learn Barbara is desperate and obsessive (to the point of a restraining order) so what I feel we were watching was a predator stalking its prey. Not all older men are like that but if I knew that an older man was like that it would be just as creepy.
I found Barbara perfectly charming, if not a little flawed and human. The fact that they cast an attractive and expressive actor in the role, such as Judy Dench, reduced creepiness for me. Intentional move on behalf of the casting director to demonstrate how deeply disturbed and desperate people are not always ugly or dishevelled, as many stereotypes would have us believe.
shareAgree with most of the above comments. Barbara is disturbed and compulsive but the final scene is that of a predator grooming its prey. Who knows, it may well develop into a beautiful relationship provided that they both have the same needs and lack of alternatives.
shareMrBullo,
Yes, she (Barbara) is definately polished in her art! I'll have to watch it again. Can't wait, as i found it interesting!