Atonement by Joe Wright

Category: English

Atonement has Keira Knightley and James McAvoy portraying the tragic characters of Cecilia Tallis & Robbie Turner. Torn apart by a simple misunderstanding, their separation eventually pans out as the the 2nd World War reaches it's peak.

Due to a mis-read letter and a certain set of events, Saoirse Ronan mistakes the kind and gentle housekeepers' son to be a sexual offender and as a result even though he has the potential and determination to follow his dream of becoming a doctor he is sent to prison where he's given the chance to be drafted into the army or stay in prison. His love for Cecilia denied by destiny he looks to find her.

The film - for a popular one doesn't follow a linear narrative, at many times exploring with the past and present and even what is reality and what's not. Ronan's character grows up and decides to Atone for her misgivings against McAvoy's character. Eventually the film explores what exactly is Atonement and if it can be rectified or if anything is possible to even do something about it. Does speaking out the truth make it all better? Simple questions raised, nothing extraordinary about this feature film, but they are raised in a delicate fashion which makes this film a little sensitive.

The acting is pretty top notch, some of the camera work is interesting and the editing is well done, doesn't get on the nerves and for a popular film this leaves a lasting impression on the viewers. A little knowledge about the World War might help in understanding what happens at Dunkirk and why exactly certain characters meet their fate the way they do, that's something not touched up on in depth in this film, the War is a brilliant way of juxtaposing a forlorn love story but perhaps the war isn't the main character here. This is a adaptation of a novel of the same name.

Recommendation level: 2/5 - Got this from a friend, but do catch it, it's a little emotional in parts but not overtly done. Perhaps the end wasn't needed and should have closed on Vanessa Redgrave's face in a close up.