irenic-43376
I remember reading about this film and thinking Yuck! No way do I want to see this. Then years later I read the novel and thought Hmmm - how on earth would someone turn this compilation of correspondence, excerpts of novels and interviews into a film? (Did not make the connection with the aforementioned movie review). So I had to find out, and I must say it was done beautifully. Spoiler follows.Of course, you can only fill 90 minutes with so much detail. I feel, however, that the film should have included Tony's psychiatric history; most people watching the movie would not realize how profoundly ill he was. The casting was perfect, particularly Redmayne and Moore, who deliver the charm and intelligence that defined these people. The film perfectly depicts how self-absorbed Mama and Papa Baekeland were, but misses the sometimes hilarious antics of the wealthy circle they moved in.
five_roads
I honestly to god don't understand why the lousy ratings! This movie was brilliant! It's savage, it says there in the title! Don't expect your interior to stay relaxed as you digest this movie! The decor and the costumes are impeccable, Julianne Moore's acting is flawless and the twist is visceral! I wanna slap the people that rated this movie a 5 out of 10! It's a 10/10! If you like psychological thrillers, mystery and sci fi movies (my personal favorites), watch this one, it's quality fuckedupness!
Bene Cumb
The plot is largely based on real events and persons - for me, it is a plus and additional value. Nevertheless, many scenes are peculiar, shocking - but still neither unrealistic nor artificial. Of course, one cannot expect dealing with topics like incest, mental illness, or vanity in a smooth and concealing manner. Such a rigorous stuff requires and expects strong and open actors - and the director and producers have managed to invite so great and versatile performers like Julianne Moore and Eddie Redmayne; they are very convincing and had certainly tough choices to make. The third leading actor, Stephen Dillane, and other supporting actors did not impress me so much, but still the movie is highly recommended to all them fond of profound dramas with a different touch - with "nasty" scenes expressed in a tasteful manner...
duerden60
Others have written some excellent reviews with which I agree so I don't feel the need to go on at length. When I started watching the movie, I was a little bored with it's meandering, talky style, but gradually got sucked into the story. Partly due to some excellent acting, (and may I mention young Barney Clark as the 12 year old Tony, perhaps slightly overshadowed by Eddie Redmayne, but who I thought brought a lot to the role.) As the tale unfolded, I enjoyed the scenery, the gentle pace and it struck me how unique it was and so refreshing after all the special effects, noise and mayhem of much from America. There was a lot missing from the plot, much left to one's imagination but despite that, I am glad I had the chance to see a flawed but enjoyable movie.
AD
