Not as good as it looks

Rating: 4/10 (10 September 2008)

The costumes are wonderful, the country houses are spectacular, but the story is rather a one note affair. This is indeed a shame, as the book on which the film is based, is a rich and interesting biography.
The supporting cast are very good, but there is little for them to do, as all the action is centered on Keira Knightly. She does not shine here. Having recently watched her in Atonement (where she was very good)I was disappointed by her performance in this film. I felt as if I knew what she is going to do where - a real shame, as I believe that she will be one of our most interesting actors, but not if judged on this outing.
Where are the examples of Georgiana's wit, her clever mind? And why are historical characters so often played with modern sensibilities - Georgiana would have known just what the Duke expected of her, as she was his property - the law in those days, not my opinion - so to suggest otherwise is just nonsense. She really was much more fascinating than depicted in the film.