A moving story

Rating: 9/10 (26 May 2009)

Flawless. This is so much more than a pretty costume piece. Yes, there is only one linear plot, but Kiera Knightly takes us so deeply into the story of her character, The Dutchess, that we are completely absorbed.
This is no comedy of manners, as we are used to in so many period pieces. This is the story of a girl excited about her future, learning blow by blow what it means to be the wife/property of a powerful man. I was impressed that Kightly was able to portray the pain of her marriage and the deep love of a mother.
Ralph Fiennes was perfect as the Duke. A man so used to his own power and privilege that it allowed him to live with no consideration for others. You don't like him, but you do understand him.
I saw the love interest of the Dutchess, not in terms of an undeniable passion, but more as an attempt to snatch some shred of joy for herself in a life empty of love. In that respect, it was played convincingly.
I am not sure that men will be able to relate to these themes, but women who have been married and have children will have their hearts torn by each painful compromise and decision. Somehow Knightly and/or the director manages to lead us through this tragic tale in a way that is moving instead of depressing.
Despite its historical nature, this is not a family film as the sexual themes are for mature audiences.