Half-based on the life of Doris Duke- one of the richest people of her time.
Doris Duke (Susan Sarandon) is an interesting, smart and demanding woman who loves her fun; especially in the form of booze and young men. Her inherited fortune has multiplied because of her sharp business mind.
Bernard (Ralph Fiennes) is a shy, nice and polite butler that starts working for her.
At first she treats her like the rest of her staff but slowly they develop a strong bond and friendship.
Now, what’s interesting about this movie is how Doris allows (gay) Bernard to express himself and takes him out of his shell. Of course people working for Doris finds their friendship weird but then again it is not like our colorful duo care. Sure just like every movie some conflicts will arise here too…
Ralph Fiennes is so adorably cute in Bernard. It was refreshing to see him as a first plain, than an increasingly flamboyant homosexual. He and Susan make a wonderful onscreen couple and their performances make the movie. It is fun, charming and relaxing.
Strongly recommended for every Susan and Ralph fan.
More on Ralph Fiennes:
The English Patient: When adultery is OK