Review of The Remains of the Day (1993) by Suzy E — 29 Nov 2007

A fine movie, and perhaps the best Merchant Ivory production. The story moves briskly along. The movie makes discreet points about changing times and politics without becoming confrontational at any time.

This reticence heightens the unexpressed emotions underpinning the relationship between the two lead characters, superbly played by Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson. The scene in which Emma Thompson tries to pierce the reserve of Anthony Hopkins is the emotional climax of the movie, and is the spring from which the tragedy flows for the remainder of the film.