One of the best British films in many years

Rating: 10/10 (3 March 2008)

This film is an instant classic, as everyone fully realizes. However, people should not be making such a fuss about James McAvoy and Keira Knightley, just because they played the romantic leads in the film, which of course they did very well indeed. There are easily a hundred actors and actresses who could have done just as well in these two undemanding parts (what is easier than to gaze longingly at someone? I do it every day at my wife, and no one has given me an Oscar yet, perhaps because I am not actually acting), and the idea that Keira Knightley should have won a Bafta or an Oscar rather than Marion Cotillard is absurd (and thank goodness she didn't, and that sheer genius was rewarded). But that said, this film contains some truly spectacular performances which made the film a success. The first is that of the thirteen year-old Saoirse Ronan, who in the story commits the terrible act for which no atonement is possible. She well deserved her Oscar, Bafta, and Golden Globe nominations. Without her, the film could have been tepid, as its core would have been weak. The other amazing performance is by that genius for all seasons, Vanessa Redgrave, whose appearance at the end makes the whole film click into perfection. There are excellent supporting efforts from Harriet Walter (fancy her dressed as Radclyffe Hall, whatever next, I ask you?), Juno Temple, fresh from her success in 'Notes on a Scandal' (maybe she wants to become a screen goddess now, having become bored with being only a Roman one), and frankly, all the others. Having achieved such a triumph, it seems pointless to repeat all the well-deserved praise which has been lavished on this powerful film which has burnt its way into the hearts of thousands with its searing story of remorse. Ian McEwan's story, Joe Wright's direction, and Christopher Hampton's wonderful script, have combined with the whole cast and crew to make a masterpiece. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus (as well as a Sanity Clause), and yes, there is still a British film industry.