Lovely Sights & Sounds But . . .

Rating: 6/10 (28 May 2018)

The sights and sounds of The Duchess are considerable - Rachel Portman's score is beautifully lyrical, emotive, and lingering. The ancient city of Bath and English countryside are beautifully photographed, as is the entire film. It was a wonderful feast for the senses, including the costumes and overall fine performances. Unfortunately these are not supported by the story. The real Georgiana was a dynamic individual very active in the social and political movements of the day, yet here we are provided merely with a cliched and predictable lightweight romantic melodrama. This quality cast is capable of so much more, and yet we're given mostly style but no substance, which really undercuts our ability to empathize with, and feel for the Duchess. Overall this film was lovely to look at but disappointing in its lack of scope.