Review of Maurice (1987) by Kyle L — 20 Dec 2007
Another mechant ivory tour de force which will put all subsequent adaptations of this moving novel into shadow! Exquisitely filmed, sensitively adapted (apart from the rather unnecessary indictment of Risley which rather oversimplified Clive's ultimate rejection of the eponymous Maurice) and splendidly acted by one of the finest casts of British actors to be assembled (this was without doubt James Wilby's paradigm).
Rupert Graves' performance (in an early film) was especially noteworthy being all at once enigmatic, earthy, sensitive and sensual. The film perfectly encapsulates many of the often difficult themes explored in the book and could only suffer from being pigeon holed into being a "gay" film.
Equally as important and equally as pertinent is the class struggle and social upheaval of Edwardian Britain and the overwhelming wish for a new and better life experienced by all the characters. Quite simply wonderful!
This review of Maurice (1987) was written by Kyle L on 20 Dec 2007.
Maurice has generally received very positive reviews.
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