Product: Brideshead Revisited [VHS] (1982)
Rating: 5.0
Self abnegation the key here.
It isn't only that this adaptation of Waugh's novel is an unending visual feast, one part, "The Great Gatsby," one part, "The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone," and one part St. John of the Cross, but indeed the message behind all that glitters--be it the absinthe coated bon mots of Anthony Blanche or Lord Marchmain's Venetian "Palace of Sin".And that message is one both forgotten and under attack, (where it even bothers to resurface at all today)--that of absolute self abnegation. The willingness to forgo earthly, natural fulfillments in order to obey supernatural commands, avoid sin, and thereby attain eternal glory.I, daresay, few viewers, even amongst the film's admirers are willing to adopt what Waugh saw as its inescapable truth. Definitely food for thought, not only for post conciliar Roman Catholics but for all persons of depth. And a decision we are all, sooner or later forced to decide. If you don't believe it, ask Lady Julia...