The perplexing chemistry between the mother and father is enhanced only by the efforts of the actors. Carlyle subtly portrays the father as a man haunted by past demons and unmentionable secrets who is unable to deal with his destitution. Watson adds a human nobility to her suffering. Parker not only fails to follow through with his cast, but at times he appears to be working against them. Parker steadfastly holds to the story and fades to black as soon as possible.
Babies die, people starve, and despair reigns.
Parker's film is bleak, without hope and evokes little emotion from the audience. Gone are the charm, wit and humanity of the book. Even the ending is a disappointment. Bring up the strings and fade to black. On second thought, perhaps it's the perfect ending for this film.