Review of Brideshead Revisited (2008) by Adrian S — 30 Sep 2008

This film is so beautiful. The score, cinematography, costumes, and art direction are just stunning... all of those aspects alone are beautiful, but when you combine them, they truly make this film breathtaking.

The story is a beautiful love story between three people, however, nothing is black and white. Even the end of the film is open to interpretation. Does this film agree with organized religion or does it go against it? Does religion destroy you or save you?

The performances in this film is what is the most memorable. Ben Whishaw portrays Sebastian perfectly. Sebastian goes through many emotions and Ben portrays them flawlessly. He truly lived his character. Ever since the first scene until his very last, he captivates the audience; he truly embodies his role, physically and emotionally. Emma Thompson is a wonder to watch. She is sometimes cold but sometimes very vulnerable. The character she played needs a talented actress, and that's the least I can say for Emma Thompson. She was sometimes scary and sometimes sympathetic. Her presence stayed with you through out the entire film. Matthew Goode played Charles wonderfully. He was great at playing a character who was completely oblivious to Sebastian's way of life and Catholocism. He was great at portraying a naive, passionate, sometimes quiet young man who doesn't have a set path in life but is just going along this journey. His last scene was the best, in my opinion. Hayley Atwell was great as Julia. She was great at portraying a conflicted young woman who's torn between her religion and how she really feels towards Charles. She had great chemistry with Matthew.

If you want to see a film with beautiful technical aspects and Oscar-worthy supporting performances, go see Brideshead Revisited!