So I kept hearing so much about The Piano all these years. You probably have heard of it, even if you haven’t seen it. Critically acclaimed, Oscar-winner and all that. And I thought it was time I should watch this popular Jane Campion film. Since I was going to watch it, I took the chance to watch Bright Star before. It was directed by Campion as well, rated at 7.2 on IMDB, a period drama starring Ben Whishaw and Abby Cornish. How could they go wrong? Beautiful leads, romantic setting and me- someone belonging exactly to the targeted audience: romantic female with a weakness for period films. My favorite movies include Pride and Prejudice and I have written articles about the period movies to watch (Period Movies: The Costumes, The Settings and The Romance).
But watching to movie, I failed to be intrigued by any character or line. In fact, I hated Mr. Brown and Paul Schnedier’s interpretation of him. The scenes are mostly too long, boring and/or mundane. This is not how an engaging drama should work. The movie did not have one fun moment in its body. And what on earth did they get the talented Thomas Sangster for? His character barely spoke and added nothing to the story. That boy is talented and he is often seen in fun roles- that have lines and action. Remember the kid in Love Actually? And Ceasar in The Last Legion?
You can bet I am a little concerned about watching The Piano now. While I love Harvey Keitel, and the premise sounds very interesting, I am not sure if it will be a worthwhile experience. But of course I will watch it anyway.
The plot? Oh that:
England, 19th century. Young and beautiful Fanny Brawne (Abby Cornish) is fascinated by fashion and clothing and designs and makes all her clothes.
Young poet John Keates is striving to make money with his work and is often working with Mr. Brown. As much as Mr. Brown and Fanny hate each other, a romance eventually blossoms between Fanny and Keats. The fact that he can’t support himself , that he is mostly dependent on Brown as a writing mate and more, complicate things. Love would probably conquer all but then Keats falls terminally ill…
Yes, Keats is a real poet that lived in that period. And his real life couldn’t have been this boring, could it? Yes, there are many who enjoyed this film, hence the 7.2 rating but I am just not one of them. 4-5/10.