Review of The Beguiled (2017) by Ramy M — 21 Jul 2017

Definition of beguile: to charm, often in a deceptive way. That's exactly what Corporal John McBurney set out to do ... for his own benefit.

I appreciated Sofia Coppola's restrained touch and admired the strong performances by the cast. The cinematography was superb; the candle-lit scenes particularly sublime. The slow pace was in keeping with the story being told. The sexual tension of the two adults and the naïveté of the teenage student were well handled.

Some critics have compared this film with the 1971 version directed by Don Siegel and concluded Coppola's movie lacks grit. I disagree. If 'grit' is indomitable courage, toughness, resolution ... the occupants of the boarding school had grit. They also had determination, doggedness, fortitude, gameness and guts ... as well as mettle, nerve, perseverance, pluck and tenacity.

Some critics have said this film is bland. Again, I disagree. It is restrained ... yes. It is beautiful, languid, finely crafted but far, far from bland. Sofia's interpretation of Thomas Cullinan's novel is no way inferior to Don Siegel's. Both are creative artists; both interpretations are equally relevant. Comparison is offensive.