Atonement was popular, and was nominated for 4 Oscars. It won only for Original Score. I agree with Hollander that James McAvoy is sexy and that Keira Knightley's boniness is unattractive and distracting in that green silk backless number, in her wet dress with many undergarments, and in her 1930s bathing costume. This week Keira is on the cover of some magazine proclaiming, "I am not anorexic!" Uh huh. The sets, locations, and wardrobe were worth the price of admission, as was that score, but it did drag. Nominee Saoirse Ronan was wonderful as anxious Briony (and her theme music perfect!). She will be starring in the adaptation of the even-more depressing book, The Lovely Bones, next year. Speaking of book adaptations, Ian McEwan's original novel of Atonement was better, but I do like Hollander's suggestion of how to change it. If you have already read the book or seen the movie (or don't mind finding out everything before you do), read Hollander's take at "Atonement, a Really Long Movie."
I felt better about Mrs. Palfrey than Hollander did. Of course it was a fantasy. Joan Plowright does the dowager (after Debbie Does Dallas) like no other, and I thought the story about the lonely old woman's friendship with the kind young man was sweet. She's entitled to her vote, and I to mine. Here's Hollander's savage review: "Miss Palfrey Falls Hard."
Miss Pettigrew--loved it. Recommended it to many at the time. Luscious sets and costumes, and Lee Pace (the Piemaker in Pushing Daisies) was yummy as usual. Some, like Hollander's companion, might find it a bit syrupy. Hollander gives away the ending but praises it in "Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day."
No! Miss Petigrew was painful! I don't like the over-acted style of Amy Adam's character. The story was predictable and repetitive. At least the costumes and people were beautiful.
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