Atonement (2007)

Starring: Keira Knightley, James McAvoy, Brenda Blethyn, Romola Gurai
Director: Joe Wright

Based on the excellent novel by Ian McEwan (I will not give a synopsis but just tell you to READ THE BOOK), Screenwriter Christopher Hampton and Director Joe Wright had a lot to live up to. For once, I am happy to say, the beauty of the book was matched. With the excellent score by Dario Marianelli, beautiful direction by Joe Wright, and excellent choices of both costuming and setting to create the heartwrenching reality of both the period leading up to and during WW2 and of the storyline.

The cast was completely inspired. Keira, who in the past always seems to be trying to hard at times hit the nail on the head. Some have said that they hated her in this movie, but having read the book I absolutely loved what she did with Cecelia Tallis. James McAvoy has long been a favourite and I always adore his acting, but as Robbie Turner, this is by far his best role yet. Romola Gurai is going from strength to strength and was a perfect Briony, as were the two women that played the younger and elder Briony.

The direction was perfect. Wright used light exquisitly and he shows such a maturation of the promise that was shown in Pride and Prejudice. Where in P&P the dialogue and characters sat awkward in the beautiful frames provided by the direction, here the connection is seemless and perfect to recreate the dual perception of the unfolding story.

Dario Marianelli is fast becoming my most favourite movie score Composer.

So, in the end, if you haven't already noticed, I loved the film. I can admit though, that not everyone will love this film. It is a slow moving film that is extremely serious in everything it does which will come across as tedious for many. For me, however, who is in love with the story and the characters, I will treasure this masterpiece for a long time.

Oh, and a quick note, bring a fan for the library scene. COLD SHOWER WILL BE NEEDED! :P