Review of Woman in Gold (2015) by Jimmy H — 05 Jul 2015
Telling an extraordinary story of wartime art theft, the need to preserve heritage and fight for rightful restitution; Woman in Gold pales into muted colours of disappointment. Plodding and mechanical instead of involving and moving, it fails to sweep us away on what should be a hugely emotional journey.
After her sisters passing, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), an octogenarian Jewish refugee living in late 90's Los Angeles, is reminded of the traumas of the past. In particular, the fate of a painting by Gustav Klimt in which her beloved Aunt Adele Bloch-Bauer was the model.
Compelled to reclaim what rightfully belongs to her family, Maria recruits Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), a struggling young lawyer with impeccable Austrian lineage to help her reclaim the paintings and make those who cause her family harm admit it for the first time.
Considered to be Austria's Mona Lisa, the dazzling portrait, strikingly embellished with gold leaf and hanging in Vienna's Belvedere, is worth millions but for Maria, it is not about the money.
With the modern scenes occasionally feeling forced or contrived, it is the flashback scenes that keep you intrigued. Visiting Maria's opulent family's home, being involved in their experiences and dismaying as their decent in the lead up to Anschluss, it is a film that hints, rather than batters you about the times atrocities.
The verdict: For the less demanding; Mirren's attempt at an Austrian accent may not grate or pry you from the moment, but all in all it is enough to offer an enjoyable outing but could have been far better.
Published : Canberra Weekly Magazine.
Date of Publication : 28/05/2015.
This review of Woman in Gold (2015) was written by Jimmy H on 05 Jul 2015.
Woman in Gold has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
