Wonderfully crafted emotional adaptation

Rating: 8/10 (5 April 2008)

The title, Atonement means to make up for what has been done. This film, thus portrays a mistake made in love, which must be repaid with sacrifice and pain. The emotional content for such a topic must be strong and the expression of the same should be clear and moving. This film stands up to this.
An adaption from Ian McEwan's Novel 'Atonement', the film is based in the countryside of Britain and then some surrounding areas later on. The background score, first of all is very unique and rhythmic. Its suits and enhances the feel conspiracy, thrill and suspense which this is the base of the movie. Its mostly, taps of the typewriter, wonderfully set with shots by clever editing. At a few places, the sync of music and cuts is amazing. The cinematography and art direction is good too. The colour variations throughout the film, are wisely used to create emotions.
The story basically is about Cecilia Tallis(Kiera Knightly) and Robbie Turner(James McAvoy). They live in a mansion of countryside Britain. Robbbie once mistakenly proposes to make love to Cecilia, who agrees. While they are doing it, Cecilia's little sister Briony Tallis sees them. Being a suspicious child she reacts aggressively and later on blames Robbie of a very serious crime. He is sent to jail on the basis on her testimony. War breaks out. Robbie as a prisoner is sent to war as a soldier. A pile of grief, in the form of this news falls on Cecilia, who had been eagerly waiting to be together with him again. She leaves her home and joins army as a nurse. The war goes on, both lovers eagerly wait to meet each other. And Briony, who had caused all this chaos, is left in deep guilt, waiting for a chance for atonement.
A very impressive story this is, drawn out really well with great performances by all actors and very sensible and clever work by the technical team. A must watch.