ATONEMENT is not the movie I thought it would be. I expected a love story circa WWII England, and it is that, but so much more. I'm not a fan of Keira Knightly. I find her pinched face and chronic pained expression difficult to watch. But she was terrific here, and that's high praise coming from me about that particular actress. Up to this point, for me James McAvoy has been the large-nippled fawn in THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA. He creeped me out so profoundly in NARNIA that I've all but forgotten him in THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND. But he, too, is terrific in ATONEMENT. Who knew I'd be so surprised by the leads.
The biggest surprise for me, though, is the story. I won't say anything about it here. See the film without knowing much about it. I liked the pacing, the way time was used, and the beautiful look of it. It should win an award for costumes, or at least a nomination.
Keep your eye on Saoirse Ronan, a young girl who plays a pivotal role. She's terrific, too.
I was going to skip ATONEMENT because of my natural aversion to Knightley and McAvoy. I am glad I didn't.
I've read some negative reviews of ATONEMENT. Well, that's what makes the world go round. I didn't find it a waste of my time.
This post was last modified: 12-31-2007, 03:37 AM by Maggers.
Reading is freedom.
The mind soars, no earthly cares,
no limitations.
A Maggers Haiku, 2005
Years ago my mother used to say to me... "In this world, Elwood, you can be oh so smart or oh so pleasant."
Well, for years I was smart.
I recommend pleasant.
You may quote me.
Elwood P. Dowd