Review of Chéri (2009) by Mark J — 12 May 2009

A period drama directed by Stephen Frears ought to be worth seeing, but not on this occasion. It's all period and no drama. Sumptuous dresses and stylish aristocratic abodes can only maintain the interest for so long.

Set during the Belle Epoque when the aristocaracy of Europe was busy smoking opium-tainted cigarettes & doing some serious navel-gazing, this movie is stuck in lazy Sunday afternoon mode. To be fair, Michelle Pfeiffer carries herself off with an elegant wit and charm, but it's a shame her opposite number (Rupert Friend as Cheri) is unable to win any sympathy or interest.

While Cheri might not be a likeable character - he's a typically selfish hedonist - that's no excuse NOT to make him interesting. As a result it's difficult to warm to this film in which its central character emerges as a spineles, lifeless and insipid fop.

Ladies will still want to shag him though...tsk..tsk!