Genre: Drama
Rating: 12A
Main Actor: Ralph Fiennes
Main Actress: Keira Knightley
YouTube: Film Trailer
This is a beautifully crafted period drama full of grand properties, fantastic dresses, big hair and tense relationships. Knightley plays the Duchess, who marriages the significantly older Fiennes as part of an arranged marriage. Her initially outlook is positive - naive maybe - but with the passage of time and her husband lack of affection and understanding, her view of the world changes.
As shown in the trailer, links are made to Princess Diana - ignore them. Rather, treat this story as one completely unique - don't search for the connections that may or may not be there. Knightley herself was said to be angered by the portrayal of this story, as it has more than enough substance to hold your attention without seeking out gimmicks such as this idea of history repeating itself. Yes, there is a third woman in their marriage. Yes, her heart belongs to another. Yes, she is adored by the everyone bar her husband. But the path her life takes differs and should not be compared...
This is an emotional, deeply moving and occasionally uncomfortable to watch. But it also inspiration, powerful and ultimately reflects the nature of this world - how life rarely pans out exactly as one would hope. With an open mind, this film is a truly rewarding journey to embark on.
Rating: 9/10
