Review of Maurice (1987) by Matthew B — 10 Sep 2007
The partial failure of this film is due, mainly, to the sentimental atmosphere of the its final half-hour; the "happy ending" seems to deflate all the resounding attacks on Edwardian prudery and the general ambiance of hatred which as existed against homosexuality for centuries.
Nonetheless, it is an undeniably gorgeous work, and the themes are handled with elegance and tact - like Brokeback Mountain, Maurice is sustained as a love story beyond a political commentary. Hugh Grant and James Wilby are very good, but not astoundingly great, as the Platonic quasi-lovers around which the yarn revolves; Rupert Graves injects much more vitality into his presentation of the sexy ruffian Alec Scudder.
The brief appearances by Denholm Elliott, Judy Parfitt, Mark Tandy, Barry Foster, and Ben Kingsley (marvelous in his potent hypnotism scenes) are predictably grand, and Richard Robbins' score is likely the best he ever produced for the Merchant-Ivory company.
A rewarding period film.
This review of Maurice (1987) was written by Matthew B on 10 Sep 2007.
Maurice has generally received very positive reviews.
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