“Atonement” (Focus Features)
A Love Story
Keira Knightley got an Oscar nomination for her role in the film “Pride and Prejudice.” She is reunited with the director of that film, Joe Wright, in her new movie “Atonement.” She should have gotten a nomination for this film too. James McAvoy is also award worthy, but the only one getting an acting nomination is young actress Saoirse Ronan who does have a pivotal role in the film. Too there is consolation in the fact the film has been nominated for “Best Picture.”
The film starts off in the late 1930’s. Rich girl Cecilia Tallis (Knightley) is the belle of the countryside and her most ardent suitor is the housekeeper’s son Robbie (McAvoy). In his pursuit of Cecilia he sends her a letter which he entrusts to her thirteen-year-old sister Briony (Ronan). This letter causes all kinds of complications for Cecilia and Robbie and impacts the rest of their lives.
The film moves from this scene to World War II. Cecilia is a nurse in London and Robbie is a soldier fighting in France. All he wants to do is survive the war and go home to Cecilia. All Cecilia wants is for Robbie to come home safely. All Briony (now played by Romola Garai) wants is to make things right for Cecilia and Robbie.
The story is based on the novel by Ian McEwan. It is full of twists and turns that confuse at first but later make perfect sense. The story is the richest part of the film, and the most ideal cast brings the story to life. This is a movie so full of emotion and heartache you can wallow in it for days.
Knightley grows better and better as an actress. She throws herself into this role and makes it her own. Her charisma with McAvoy is wonderful to see and he matches her acting and enthusiasm completely. All of the other actors, including Ronan, are solid casting for their roles. Vanessa Redgrave is a standout as the older Briony. She only has a few moments on screen but makes a total impact in the part.
The film is rated R for profanity and violence.
“Atonement” is one of the best movies of the year. It has it all – a first rate story, superb actors, beautiful costumes, a rich musical score and war as a backdrop. It all ties together perfectly and provides endless entertainment value from beginning to end.
Don’t let “Atonement” leave your area without your seeing it. It will be out on DVD soon but you want to enjoy it on the big screen.
I scored “Atonement” a forgiven 8 out of 10.
