Howards End
1992 Directed by James Ivory
Synopsis
A businessman thwarts his wife's bequest of an estate to another woman.
Cast
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It's not "Howard's", it's "Haaard's". Being an absolute linguaphile, it delights my ears to hear people speak with such marvellous enunciation, every word handled as though a valuable piece of fine china. Because one must conduct oneself with an air of respectability, mustn't one? The costumes and set designs are just as decadent as the dialogue, crafting a very convincing film visually that wonderfully evokes the period setting. It's quite an interesting class commentary that takes a little too long to get going, but once it does it's always very enjoyable, and surprisingly funny. Thompson is a treat, as ever, and there's not a weak link in the rest of the cast. Too long and a little short of real depth, it's at least eminently watchable, and a true delight for anyone who finds themselves seduced by sumptuous language.
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Perhaps the best Merchant-Ivory film made, Howards End sparkles with tragedy and comedy, meshing romance with politics seamlessly. It's a truly wonderful film with a powerhouse performance from Emma Thompson at the center.
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A far more slippery, radical, and politically charged film than its heritage cinema veneer would suggest.
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The absolute blue-print on how to nail a period literary adaptation. Flawless on every level.
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Superb film.
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Well-done period piece. Emma Thompson is always good.
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Excellent period drama from Merchant Ivory, with characteristic attention to detail, strong performances, and beautiful camera work (particularly the opening tracking shot, which reminded me of Terrence Malick's films). Charming and funny.
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Review from my VOD column "This Week on Demand".
Stuffed with the sort of people who pronounce the titular estate as though it were “Hards End”, James Ivory’s pristine period piece is an immaculately scripted and acutely delivered example of attention to detail, the upper class of early 20th century England beautifully replicated at every turn. Anthony Hopkins and Emma Watson are on top form as a wealthy industrialist and the independent woman he courts after the death of his wife, the pair consummately embodying the airs of their class at that time. Helena Bonham Carter and Vanessa Redgrave are among many highlights of the supporting cast; well-written and acted though it is, this is an actor’s film, with each…
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Anthony Hopkins gives to his audience another very strong performance along with Thompson and Carter.
The cast aswell as the movie win my heart over and over again with everytime i watch this film. -
Costume Dramathon Day 28
Such a beautifully filmed movie. A favorite of mine. Merchant Ivory Productions never dissapoint.