In the latest adaptation of the Dickens classic, Helena
Bonham Carter is doing what she does best. She plays Miss Haversham, a deeply
damaged woman once jilted at the altar who is left literally decaying in a room for
over 20 years. Dressed in an old wedding dress with big hair resembling the
bride of Frankenstein, she looks as if she has stepped right out of a Tim Burton
production. It appears to be the part she was born to play.
Given her track record, one could expect another brassy and
unbridled performance. In this case, her portrayal is far more nuanced than
that. She never borders on pantomime or caricature but instead brings a
thoughtfulness and melancholy to the character. She is the defining
ingredient in a great new cast of characters under the direction of Mike Newell
(Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Prince of Persia).
Newell’s Great Expectations is a solid adaptation of
the book, faithfully Dickensian in its sentiment. He properly balances the
comedy and tragedy of the narrative and brings out the best in his actors.
Holliday Grainger gives a notable performance as Estella, giving her a humanity
and emotional redemption sometimes overlooked in previous adaptations. And
while Jeremy Irvine keeps in character, at times he lacks charisma and comes
off a bit bland. Together however, they have just the right amount of
chemistry. Ralph Fiennes, Robbie Coltrane and Jason Flemyng are also commendable in
their individual roles.
Additionally, the stylished costuming and gothic production
design is lushly produced. Although a good movie, it’s not a great one. Newell’s
take isn’t particularly original or unique; nevertheless it’s a new adaptation
for a new generation.
No comments:
Post a Comment