Sitting in a packed cinema in Mill Valley, CA watching this film demonstrates that the film experience still exists and that great films can be made. This is a great movie experience because it is so gentle, simple and direct-no stunts-no noise-no robots-just a piece of history recreated with tenderness and poetic truth. Jane Champion shows how film can tell a story without interference and how the elements of film can join together to open a world of wonder and song.
The film is visual and very moving without being maudlin or melodramatic. It also refuses to dwell on the sensational, even the creative part of the story.
The viewer is left inspired to explore the creation of Keats, and no wonder. Such an introduction to a life would leave anyone hungry for more.
The performances are enchanting and almost mystical in scope. The cinematography is just inspired. So this is it-turn off your lap top and go to a show.....You will remember this for a very long time.
