Review of Lady Macbeth (2016) by Dawdlingpoet — 25 Nov 2021

First off this struck me as a very atmospheric and eery type watch from the start - it has a looming sense about it. There's noteably little in the way of dialogue, with a fair amount of scenes being set (if just at the start) in silence. This leaves the viewer wondering whats led to what is going on, the motives of people and what might happen etc.

It appears very much a symbolic watch, being mostly about the perception of women by men at the time its set in (the 1800s), how worthy their deemed etc. Its decidedly unsettling, with violence present, if only now and again but there's a definite tension present throughout. Its not just the dialogue thats sparse but the rural setting also appears desolate and undoubtedly adds to the atmosphere present. I suppose it acts as a sort of metaphor for the female characters, who feel stuck in their various roles/situations.

There are some relatively saucy scenes present, so it may not be an ideal watch to see with family but as an example of an atmospheric watch, its good, just be aware that its a slow moving film, so don't expect slick action scenes or a fast paced plot. Florence Pugh does well in the titular character role, I'd say. Her costumes look quite stunning at times and she comes across as a well thought out character. Overall I'd happily recommend this film.