Review of Anna Karenina (2012) by Feli Y — 30 Dec 2013

Tantalising theatrics and striking visual imagery work wonders to ensure Joe Wright's adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's titular classic is far from a trainwreck. Sadly though, that's not to say that the Anna Karenina of 2012 doesn't have its problems.

Joe Wright fails to fully capture the thematics and awe-inspiring emotional wallop of Tolstoy's great novel, but his efforts do provide us with a poignant portrait of horror and torment; praiseworthy both for its performances and its refreshing stylistics. Non-readers may find the trimmed plot and blank-happy narrative hard to follow, but there's no denying that this a charming adaptation and a magical cinematic experience; perhaps even one of Wright's most established works to date. A thoroughly worthwhile watch.