Review of Gosford Park (2001) by Aoife D — 09 Jul 2008

If you want proof that Robert Altman was one of the all time bests at crafting smart, original, and well rounded films, just watch this movie. You should not go in expecting a mystery or a film that is going to have lots of action and suspense.

Rather, Gosford Park relies on subtly and character development as it draws an excellent and complete picture of class and social divisions in post WWI England. While there is some comedy and a murder thrown in, neither are at the heart of the picture.

Because this is a Robert Altman movie, you also have to come in prepared to follow the overlapping dialog and plethora of characters whirling around on screen. With the possible exception of Maggie Smith, none of the actors really stood out because none of them got enough camera time to really shine, but taken as a whole the acting here is excellent.