Review of Gosford Park (2001) by Sarfaraz A — 07 May 2012

I do not want to learn from this movie about "British class system during the 1930s; sexual mores during the 1930s gay issues, or the decline of the British Empire and the peerage system"; I even would not like to put it in high-esteem just because it was one of last films by Robert Altman, and because of his seniority. I (merely) want to know, why are we victimized with this pathetic plot? It runs almost about 2hrs.17min. with nothing (believe me), nothing of 'hype' to raise our curiosity for the film.

Let's accolade this film category-wise. I was impressed with cinematography by Andrew Dunn, he uses perfect lightning to bring to life, the good old period of 1930's. It is remarkable cinematography. I did not find anyone giving performance worthy of Oscar, including Maggie Smith, and Helen Mirren (as usual just because, the actresses are old, the Academy, which is mostly comprised of old members, had to honor them).

I think, Altman proves himself, while squeezing out typical performance and attitude of characters, to make them familiar with period of 1930's. The way, in a scene those characters holding rifles, looked exactly how, people hold rifles in world-famous 'Dracula 1931', in this regard, Altman's direction is unique, putting flawless set-designs, costume-designs, as well as mannerism of characters.

However, it is waste of time, if you are looking for getting excited about mystery plot. It's nonsense, actually!