Brilliant in every way

Rating: 10/10 (31 December 2018)

This film is an absolute stunner in its settings, costumes, music and above all the acting. Its brilliance was literal as multiple candles glittered and flickered in the gloom of a pre- electric world, while the brilliance of the three women at the heart of the power struggle was outstanding. The men came off second best in this even though they actually held the power. I cannot recommend it highly enough to anyone who appreciates the genius of film making. It never lost pace throughout and was daring in its use of long held closeups of the actors, who seemed to revel in their chance to give us an insight into their inner worlds. It reminded me of Barry Lyndon in the recreation of a period world without losing sight of people's essential humanity, warts and all.