Review of On Chesil Beach (2018) by Leong C — 05 Nov 2018

I have not read the Ian McEwan novella on which this film was based. So I can't offer any comparisons.

The movie shows us the evening right after a young couple, Florence & Edward, have gotten married. It's clear they're fond of each other, but there is also an undeniable tension between them. The film bounces back and forth between flashbacks, showing how they met, fell in love, etc. (as well as flashbacks to childhood for Florence) and back to their honeymoon hotel on Chesil Beach, where we discover that both of them are virgins, and that their wedding night might not flow too well.

In some ways, this is a fascinating look at sexuality, particularly at a time (1962) and place (England), where repression was rampant and one did not discuss sex openly. Yet on the other hand, it's hard to believe that this couple, who we see have had issues with physical intimacy even before marriage, never discussed the topic. They sure have plenty to talk about, and seem to get along quite well and are very fond of each other...yet a couple of uncomfortable (but not impossible) conversations were completely avoided. Florence's issues are only hinted at, and Edward just comes across as a bit of a bumbling fool. I feel bad for them, at times, but also frustrated to the point of dismissiveness at other times.

Florence is ably played by Sairoise Ronan, and seeing her in this film is reason enough to go. Billy Howle plays Edward, and he is problematic. I wasn't sure if the director wanted Edward to be so full of quirks and mannerisms and vocal tics...or if that's what the actor brought to the role. I hesitate to knock the acting without knowing the intent of the filmmakers, but I have to say it felt to me like this film loses a star simply because the male lead just isn't up to the task. The rest of the cast all have tiny roles (including poor Emily Watson, who mostly plays uptight shrews now)...so the film very much rests on these two.

There are some touching scenes (one between Florence and Edward's mother is particularly nice) and lots to talk about afterwards. But it all felt vaguely improbable. I can't say much more without spoiling the outcome...but in the end, this wasn't a movie about repression, it was a movie about just failing to communicate at a very basic, simple level. Sometimes it was credible...other times, when the stakes were so high, it was highly incredible.

The film is a mixed bag, but I do give it a slight recommend, at least for moviegoers who don't need a fast-paced, action packed film. It's quite and reflective. And well done by Ronan.