Review of The Importance of Being Earnest (2002) by Sierra H — 26 Apr 2010

Oliver Parkers "The Importance of Being Ernest" (2002) is an exceptional modern adaptation to the original play by Oscar Wilde (1895). This film captures the essence of Wilde's most popular play, utilizing new technologies to give new life to an old masterpiece. One of the things I admire about Parkers work is the way he stuck to the original script perfectly. It was amazing how the 2002 production was as entertaining as it was by today's standards.

I found cast selection to be immaculate. Reese Witherspoon surprised me by showing her diversity in this film. From Legally Blonde (2001), to Importance of being Ernest (2002), Reese is certainly a very versatile actress, and none of her talent was wasted in this production. Playing the part of Cecily, Reese was challenged with the task of playing a wholesome country girl from a wealthy family. Being Used to the wealthy aspect from Legally Blonde, Reese did an exceptional job of creating an unconscious snootiness around her character. The wholesome side of Cecily however was not an area where I expected Reese to excel; she surprised me.

Rupert Everett and Colin Firth did a good job of working off each other and creating an anticipated excitement whenever the two where together in a scene. The audience expects wild antics and hilarious predicaments when you get the two troublemakers together. Most impressive was the inter-character relationships developed from early on in the play. Parker's selection of characters allowed for the audience to assume what relationships are already in place. It cuts out a lot of time that would be needed to develop inter-character relationships.

I was also impressed with the sub plot containing supporting roles such as Dr. Chausible (Tom Wilkinson) and Mrs. Prism (Anna Massey). It added an element of depth to the play and gave a nice break from the drama of the "ernest predicament".

The production factors of the film where more the exceptional. Music by Charlie Mole did an excellent job of dating the movie and keeping the audience aware of the setting and era in which the movie takes place. Costumes, lighting and makeup also reflected the point in time that the production takes place.

In conclusion, "the Importance of being Ernest" was a very exciting film with a deep and complex plot requiring the veiwer to be exceptionaly attentive. The comedic aspect of the plot was very date specific but still entertaining 125 years after the original production. Aspects of the film such as charactorization where exicuted to a T.