Like its predecessor — the 1995 Sundance Film Festival hit "Before Sunrise" — there's not much more to "Before Sunset" than one extended conversation between two characters. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but the film may be a bit more talky than audiences are used to.

Actually, the film's seemingly simple premise is a bit deceptive. While the movie appears to be a simple romantic drama, filmmaker Richard Linklater uses those trappings to explore some weightier topics — in this case, ruminations on the meaning of destiny, especially when it comes to romantic relationships.

Not that it's all pseudo-intellectual observations and existential angst. Instead, it's more thoughtful and contemplative, but not to the point of being repetitious and boring.

Besides, it's one of the most romantic films in recent memory (and the European setting doesn't hurt).

"Before Sunset" answers most of the questions left hanging in the first film by catching up with the two characters nearly 10 years later.

Jesse (Ethan Hawke) is now a novelist, touring Europe to publicize his latest work. He winds up in Paris for a book signing, and Celine (Julie Delpy) just happens to turn up at the store.

He's got just a few hours before he's supposed to catch a plane and fly back to the United States. So these two nearly lovers spend the time reminiscing, catching up and touring Paris, mostly on foot.

As it turns out, Jesse is married and has a son. Celine is an international relief worker and has a steady boyfriend. Still, both wonder about What Might Have Been, and each tries to determine how the other feels about it.

Not to give anything away, but the movie does seem to keep the option of another sequel open. However, you don't need to have seen the first film to enjoy this one, as it rather effectively rehashes its predecessor (which is a fine little film in its own right).

Linklater and co-screenwriter Kim Krizan may have come up with the situations, but Hawke and Delpy have improvised much of their own dialogue. As a result, it sounds more natural and less like someone else putting words into actors' mouths.

The performances also seem more natural. Hawke isn't as smug as usual. In fact, he's rather likable. But the real star is Delpy, who's so magnetic that audiences will fall in love with her. She's also got a fine singing voice — and gets to sing one of her own compositions.

"Before Sunset" is rated R for occasional use of strong sexual profanity, as well as some other frank sexual talk. Running time: 80 minutes.

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E-MAIL: jeff@desnews.com