A period drama boasting a ‘phenomenal’ ensemble cast is captivating cinema enthusiasts, and viewers can catch it this evening on Film 4.
A Room With A View hit cinemas in 1985 and despite being nearly four decades old, remains regarded as a timeless period drama masterpiece.
This nearly two-hour epic secured three Academy Awards for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design, yet continues to enchant modern audiences with countless film enthusiasts awarding it five stars for its narrative, soundtrack and casting which they describe as ‘perfection.’.
This British production, adapted from E. M. Forster’s novel, follows Lucy Honeychurch (Helena Bonham-Carter), a young English lady travelling through Italy accompanied by her elderly cousin (Maggie Smith). During their stay at a Florentine hotel, Lucy encounters the captivating and unconventional George Emerson (Julian Sands), reports the Mirror.
Though fascinated by George, upon returning to England Lucy contemplates marriage to the affluent yet conventional Cecil Vyse (Daniel Day-Lewis). However, when George unexpectedly re-enters her world, Lucy faces a choice between the two suitors.
The acclaim for this period piece is evident in viewer testimonials, with one enthusiast writing on Rotten Tomatoes: “Such a beautiful movie, most definitely one of my new favourites. The acting, the scenery, the music, the whole atmosphere of the film is complete perfection. It is an absolute must watch film if you are looking for a slow-summer type of movie, filled with romance, depth, and beauty.”
Another said: “This magnificent film is music to the ear, to the eye unto the heart…. even my mind is left in a thrill…..
“Sheer perfection. The most phenomenal acting from start to finish. Beautiful cinematography and production design. Breath-taking music. If only films were made to this inspiring standard today, as a rule. It is a masterclass in every way,” remarked a third viewer.
Another posted: “Just the best. I have seen it with great pleasure many times.”
One cinema enthusiast believes it showcases some of Helena Bonham-Carter’s finest work, adding: “A movie that NEVER gets old. It is simply well made, beautifully directed and well acted. One of the bests of Helena!”.
Another shared: “An intelligent outing, reflecting on love and society. Lives well to the theme of its title: “Who gets a room with a view? And what determines that? Compared to Helena Bonham Carter’s later performances, you can see her nerves and downplay in this one. Not to say she’s terrible. She’s fresh-faced and engaging.
“Helena’s best film, and a riveting duet cameo from Maggie and Judi,” said another admirer. One of the film’s stars, Julian Sands, was tragically discovered dead in 2023.
The actor had vanished five months prior whilst trekking in California’s San Gabriel Mountains.
Julian’s family released a statement through law enforcement, expressing their appreciation to the search teams and coordinators for their tireless work.
They added: “We continue to hold Julian in our hearts with bright memories of him as a wonderful father, husband, explorer, lover of the natural world and the arts, and as an original and collaborative performer.”
