'Atonement' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/atonement/26636/main

This movie will easily remind you of The English Patient. Both were based on acclaimed novels and made into stately period pieces set around/during WWII. Both films use magnificent sets & scenery and costumes that never dwarf the plot and acting while an impressive music score underlines the drama.

Of course some critics have complained that the film doesn't capture the totality of the novel but I haven't read it and can only judge what's on the screen. This is an intelligent, thought-provoking work that slowly catches you offguard as it plays tricks with the time line to evoke surprises. The cast is splendid, including the three actresses who play Brione, the child whose  cruel lie sets the tragic events in motion and how she later tries to make amends.  It's good to see Keira Knightly not in Caribbean pirate drag,  playing an English aristocrat from another period and James McAvoy understated performance has your support & sympathy as her wronged lover. The true meaning of atonement comes full circle with Vanessa Redgrave's brief appearance at the end.