If you like British period pieces, you'll really like this. Set in the 1930's, the story revolves around the 17-year-old daughter, Cassandra (the very lovely Romola Garai) of a dried up author father, nudist mother, and sister of a gold-digging beauty (a fantastic as always Rose Byrne). The family lives in a decrepit old castle, owned by a couple of brash American hotties who come to visit, and can't afford the rent as the father hasn't published in 12 years. What follows is both expected and unexpected, and I won't say more so as not to spoil it for you. The movie is beautifully filmed and has moving scenes especially with Cassandra. It definitely would be considered "a chick flick" - but I consider it a good one. Not as good as say, the BBC's "Pride and Prejudice," but entertaining all the same. Thus, if you're an anglophile and enjoy a good dramatic romance, buy it!Read full review
Wow! Missing the show of the Magdalene Sisters, this was the only other interesting movie I hadn't seen in the area. I expected an overly feminine and sappy love story, but hoped for some extraordinary acting. The acting was just decent, but the story and writing here really, really shine. While All The Real Girls had some wonderfully realistic romantic moments, they were encased in an overall uneven and unfocused film. Here, the romantic moments of truth shine, and set a beautifully consistent tone for the entire film. Only one scene (her and her father later on) seemed anything other than perfectly true and realistic. Lacking the contempt for romance many modern films possess, it's fantastic to see such an optomistic film.
This dvd is a wonderful cinematic display of the much loved book by Dodie Smith. People who liked the modern treatments of Jane Austen books in the movies will enjoy this BBC production. Romola Garai was luminous in this movie--she first caught my eye when she was in Kenneth Branagh's As You Like It and more recently as the teenaged Briony in Atonement. I also enjoyed E.T.'s Henry Thomas and Marc Blucas as American brothers who are struck with the British Martmain sisters. Bill Nighy is also convincing as the "one book wonder" author. The artistry and cinematography is really lush--quite an enjoyable British production.
Very lovely movie.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Excellent quality dvd purchase.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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