The producers at New Films International, the people responsible to ensure that the patrons of the 21st Palm Springs International Film Festival’s closing movie “The Lightkeepers,” leave the theater with the sights and sounds of a charming, old fashioned, sweet movie ringing in their memories, have done their job well.

The romantic comedy, written and lovingly directed by Daniel Adams, nicely blends the talents of “old Hollywood” stars Richard Dreyfuss and Blythe Danner with those of talented, young, emerging actors Mamie Gummer and Tom Wisdom.

Adams’ character-driven story is set in 1912 Cape Cod and revolves around grumpy, old, woman-hating, lighthouse keeper Seth Atkins (Richard Dreyfuss). The local townspeople just love to provoke Seth in order to hear one his tirades about women, the sea and his lighthouse.

When his assistant can take no more of his complaining and gruff manner, he suddenly quits, leaving Seth alone to manage the lighthouse. One morning, a mysterious young man (Tom Wisdom) washes up on shore near the lighthouse. During his recovery, the young man is reluctant to tell Seth his name, however, they eventually bridge the generation gap, telling stories and getting along to the point where the young man says he wants the assistant’s job. Against his better judgment, Seth agrees.

One day, they spot a buggy carrying two women coming down the road toward the lighthouse. Seth and the young man, who now answers to the name of John Brown, swear an oath to never get involved with any women — ever. But it is soon apparent that the men will have to contend with the lovely Ruth Graham (Mamie Gummer) and her housekeeper, Mrs. Bascom (Blythe Danner), who have come to stay for the summer in a nearby cottage on this lonely stretch of Cape Cod beach.

During the next several weeks, John falls in love with Ruth, but tries to keep his feelings a secret from Seth. But when Seth meets Mrs.Bascom, all bets concerning “the oath” are off. Seth, it appears, has a previous history with the housekeeper, and as a result of seeing her again would like to pick up where they left off. Mrs. Bascom, however, isn’t quite sure she wants to relive her past with Seth. (They were married years ago and according to Seth still are — just estranged, that’s all.) The story may be somewhat predictable; however, there isn’t a single vampire, car chase or explosion anywhere to be found — thank goodness!

It’s always enjoyable to watch two pro’s do their thing. Dreyfuss’ Seth is crotchety and blustery, and he shows us the stuff that won him a Best Actor Oscar. Danner is an elegant actress whose willowy beauty and talent have not deserted her. As Mrs. Bascom, she may appear a tad tall opposite Dreyfuss, but together they create some very nice moments.

Not to be outdone by the established stars, young Mamie Gummer (so reminiscent of her mother Merryl Streep) and British newcomer Tom Wisdom hold their own when it comes to young love beginning to blossom. There is also a cameo appearance by Bruce Dern, as Mrs. Bascom’s irritating and snobbish brother.

Cinematographer Thomas Jewett captures the scenery and mood of turn-of-the-century Cape Cod with sweeping shots of cerulean skies punctuated with white billowing cloud formations. Together, Jewett and director Adams give the film a clean, crisp look and feel which, in a way, is like an “old Hollywood-style” movie, complete with a lush musical score by young and talented Pinar Toprak.

Borrowing a play title from The Bard, “All’s Well, That End’s Well,” sums up this lighthearted and entertaining film.

For more about the Palm Springs International Film Festival, click here.

For more information about “The Lightkeepers,” click here.

Palm Springs Guides Theatre & Cinema Critic/Reviewer Jack Lyons is a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the Writers Guild of America, West and Screen Actors Guild and is interested in all things “show biz.” An entertainment journalist, TV, radio and theater reviewer/critic seen locally in the Coachella Valley on channel My13 KPSE-TV on “Desert Entertainment This Week.” To visit Jack’s blog, click here.