ACED Magazine

Rated R

Robbie Turner (James McAvoy), the educated son of the family’s housekeeper, carries a torch for Briony’s headstrong older sister Cecilia (Keira Knightley). When his and Cecelia's romance finally does spark, Briony – who has a crush on Robbie – is compelled to interfere, going so far as accusing Robbie of a crime he did not commit.

Cecilia and Robbie declare their love for each other, but he is arrested – and with Briony bearing false witness, the course of three lives is changed forever. Briony continues to seek forgiveness for her childhood misdeed. Through a terrible and courageous act of imagination, she finds the path to her uncertain atonement, and to an understanding of the power of enduring love.

DVD Features:

Atonement is a courageous, unique tale of love, loss and lessons. Intertwined with the beautiful backdrop of the British countryside, and contrasted with the dreary destitution of the war, the mood and personality of this film is brought on by the scenery just as much as it is from its story or actors.

A fabulous adaptation from its source novel, each aspect of this production unfolds through the eyes of the characters in their journeys of love, betrayal and regret. McAvoy is stellar in his portrayal of Robbie, illustrating the sorrow and the rage his character experiences with unbridled passion. Even his posture provides the tell-tale signs of Robbie's fate before it is sealed.

Ronan gave a precision performance as Briony. Knightley also presented a strong character of will, although I felt like I needed to jump through the screen and feed her something. It looked like she was going to break on screen. Paper thin is a look better left for cartoon characters.

The features on the DVD are well worth a spin. For me, the Making of segment was the most interesting. McAvoy talks about his character and reveals the effect the role had on him, even now, when he thinks about the story and his character's strife.

Final Analysis: While the features on this DVD are adequate, the film itself is immaculate. Anyone that enjoys a unique, solid story, fine acting and period dramas will love this movie.

This Reviewer's Rating: 5 / 5

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rebecca marbas   |2008-03-10 00:50:58 thank yo for the chance to win Reply 0   0

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