Tantalizing but detached.

Rating: 6/10 (15 December 2007)

When I first saw this I was quite happy with the film. I thought it was a tasteful adaptation of the brilliant novel. I've been surprised, however, at how forgettable the film is. It's not a film that takes a hold on you even for just a little while. The book pulls you in and includes one of the best descriptions of what it must've been like to work at a hospital during W.W.II that I've ever read. The film is beautiful to look at, and Joe Wright is a capable and gifted director. However there is a sense of detachment that permeates the whole film. James McAvoy, wonderful in "The Last King of Scotland," is stymied by the painterly scenes that don't let their characters be real, breathing people. The music is pleasant but has the effect of just adding to the whole package. The music says "Now, you must feel this way." The only thing that is truly worth seeing in this film is Vanessa Redgrave at the end of the film. Sure, the film will get Oscars. It's the kind of film major award-givers love. It's a love story set in the inter-war years that segues into W.W.II. There is a long tracking shot of a battlefield. Who can resist these? But it's all glitter and not much substance. I like the fact that there are filmmakers willing to adapt complex novels into films, and they should continue to do so. However about this film I must say, read the book!!