Movie Review: Atonement

My Rating: 8/10

This film is set during the early stages of World War 2. It's a must watch for those of us colonial types who want to see more of the english countryside and the gentlemen with their stuffy eccentric ways.

The summer frolic in the English countryside, around a huge english mansion rewards the heart and reminds one of the carefree days when we were children. The colours are fresh and soft, giving this part of the film a dreamy, romantic ambience.

James McAvoy redeems himself here after his performance in The Last King of Scotland. He fits perfectly into this role as the composed Robbie Turner. The film's antagonist, Briony develops a crush for Robbie. She watches a questionable scene from her bedroom window- an exchange between Robbie and her sister. She jumps to conclusions and her resulting actions haunt her till the very end of the movie as repercussions echo and effect their lives.

There is a brief jaunt into the beaches of Dunkirk. This legendary scene features an expanse of beach with soldiers milling about. Pay attention to the very long take at the beach as the camera sweeps across hundreds of extras.

Film editing is fluid and impeccable. The plot unfolds at its own pace- there's no rush in Atonement, but we are absorbed into each character's life, if simply to know their fate. Atonement is a well told love story and it's nice to watch Kiera Knightly without a scimitar for a change.