Disclaimer: This reviewer knows nothing of the source material nor of previous adaptations

Rating: 8/10 (28 January 2008)

Since I am not a member of the gentler sex nor do I particularly care for Ms. Knightley I wasn't exactly psyched to watch this film. So, imagine my surprise when I ended up enjoying it in spite of myself.
The cast is of high caliber with special mention going to Donald Sutherland and, especially, Judi Dench. Keira Knightley was never better (not that I thought that she was ever worth watching before). I hate to single out individuals, though, because there is not a single actor/actress who seemed out of place.
Visually the film is quite attractive. The director doesn't often get creative but when he does it is always interesting and never detracts from the story & characters. I also admire the use of music throughout (both in the score and when played by various characters).
I have not read the novel upon which the film is based so I cannot comment on the accuracy of the adaptation. The storyline as presented here is compelling, though. No doubt females will be the most appreciative audience but those males with a touch of the inner romanticist may be similarly swayed.