Sons & Lovers

Now I know what you're thinking, but don't worry I'm not some kind of pervert, just a guy who is trying to find a redeeming feature in this mess. The made-for-TV adaptation of D.H Lawrence's classic(?) novel was broadcast over 2 nights on the ITV channel here in the UK and is a long winded thing indeed with scene after scene of boring talk which didn't seem to move the plot forward one iota and a performance from ITV drama stalwart Sarah Lancashire (ex-Coronation Street) which seemed to consist of her staring at the camera with those puppy-dog eyes of hers trying to elicit a reaction from the audience along the lines of "Poor her" as her character experienced humilation upon humiliation. The only good part of this long slog through the early part of the 20th century was that one of her sons had some pretty hot looking girlfriends who kept removing their corsets for pointless yet entertaining nude scenes, this at least kept me awake during the second installment.

If you think I'm being unfair, take a look at some other D.H Lawrence films that originated from his books e.g Women in Love and The Rainbow then come back and tell me which scenes were most memorable in them for you. Was it the brilliant acting? The great period detail? The romantic storylines? No? Well then, you can see my point!!

The actual filming of the people, interiors and landscapes in this film is wonderful. There is hardly a frame that could not be taken out of context and seen as a "picture".

The numerous sex scenes are very expressive of the relationship of the characters at that moment in their lives and also, I think, of the times. The story is by D.H. Lawrence and as such should be criticized in the context of his writing; the characters are making wrong and bad choices and some are flawed to the point of caricature. The film itself does its best to bring this sprawling tale together and to give life to the rather unbelievable mother who seems to ruin the lives of her two sons and her feckless husband.

Anyone who enjoys what used to be called costume drama should find this a very satisfying watch.