Atonement is a masterpiece

I saw Atonement today and I was blown away, which is really saying something. I had very high expectations for this film, having anticipated it since the moment I heard it was being made. I was worried it wouldn't live up, even if it was good but not great, but those fears were easily assuaged. It was phenominal.

The book it is based on is one of my favorites, and the film is a wonderful adaptation of the novel, capturing its essence while making its own statement about the power of storytelling, be it for devious or benevolent purposes. The film is visually stunning, and, remarkably, aurally stunning too. The sound of typing exists in the reality of the scene but also as part of the score, merging the two quite effectively.

The actors are also extraordinary. I was particularly taken by Keira Knightley, who transforms so effectively from her early scenes as a vibrant girl on the cusp of womanhood--beautiful, wealthy, the world at her feet--to the struggling woman whose life was so severely knocked off course, who looks like she's had life itself sucked from her. All three Brionys were good too, and bear a remarkable resemblance to each other, both physically and in mannerism, so that they are completely believable. James McAvoy was fantastic too.

I've already posted about the amazing one-take Dunkirk sequence, which works great in the film. Another fine scene is the electric love scene between Cecilia (Knightley) and Robbie (McAvoy) in the library. Here's a bit leading up to that. Notice the beautiful green dress Knightley wears.



Expect this film to be showered with well deserved Oscar nominations, probably 12: picture, actor, actress, supporting actress, director, adapted screenplay, cinematography, art direction, costume design, score, editing, and sound mixing.