Sunday, May 11, 2008

Atonement Review

Hype:  The hype for Atonement for me wasn't too big.  I never read the book and have no idea what the story is about.  When I first saw the list of the Best Picture Nominees at this past years Academy Awards, I said this would be the one nominee I wouldn't purchase.  A lot of my friends didn't like Atonement, it wasn't what they thought it was going to be.  So do I listen to my friends or to the people who vote for the Academy Award nominees?  How bout I just watch the movie and decide for myself.

Initial Review:  Atonement is the story of two young lovers Cecilla Tallis (Keira Knightley) and Robbie Turner (James McAvoy), whose lives are changed when Cecilla's younger sister, Briony, accuses Robbie of raping her cousin.  Briony had a crush on Robbie and then thought he was a sexual monster when she misinterpreted an argument between Robbie and Cecilla and after reading a letter Robbie wrote Cecilla.  Robbie is sent to jail and then forced to either stay in jail or go fight in World War II.  He decides to go to war.  While he is off at war, Cecilla becomes a nurse and Briony decides to follow in her footsteps.  Briony soon realizes she made a mistake in accusing Robbie and tries to tell her sister.  I feel like I need to stop there with the synopsis, I don't want to give too much away.

I can see why this movie was nominated for so many awards.  The acting was great, the cinematography was beautiful, and the story was enjoyable.  Atonement won an Academy Award for Original Score and when watching the movie you can see/hear why.  The score is very strong throughout the film and probably the thing that stood out the most.

Was Atonement one of the best films of 2007?  It wouldn't have made my top 10.  It's no There Will Be Blood or No Country for Old Men, but it was a joy to watch.  From the people I've talked to about Atonement they went in expecting a romance and this is no romance movie.  I didn't read the book so I can't compare it and tell you which one is better.  I recommend renting this movie, it was on a ton of peoples best of 2007 lists for a reason.

Repeat Viewings: N/A

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