A Room with a View

One of my all time favorite movies is "A Room with a View".  Based on a turn of the century E.M. Forster novel, "A Room with a View" was released by Merchant Ivory Productions in 1985. This picture is a special feast for the senses, set in both the Italian and the English countryside.  Merchant Ivory films are usually lush, vibrant, period pieces featuring talented actors - not movie stars - actors. "A Room with a View" is no exception.  The film stars Daniel Day Lewis, Helena Bonham Carter, Dame Judy Dench, Julian Sands and Maggie Smith.  

The story revolves around a young English lady who has to choose between the safety of repressed British society and the freedom of passion. The glories of Florence seem to awaken Lucy to the greater possibilities of the world.  She meets a spirited, free-thinking young English gentleman who steals a kiss from her in a field of flowers. Whisked back home by her chaperone, Lucy returns to the old life, becoming engaged to a wealthy, uptight elitist.  When her young admirer moves into the neighborhood, however, Lucy must choose between prudence and passion.

I try not to watch "A Room with a View" too often - perhaps once a year. I tend to overwatch my favorite films and to be honest, I can "kill" a good movie that way. If my brain knows exactly what the screen looks like and the way the dialog is spoken, to the very inflection of the words, my mind will feel free to drift. Soon, I'll be thinking about what to buy at the grocery store and wondering if my book has come in at Borders. "A Room with a View" is too beautiful for that.  Every moment must be watched and savored.  The film is a wonderful escape and I highly recommend it. In fact, I'll be indulging myself with it this evening.

Suzanne

POSTSCRIPT ADDED! I forgot to mention that there is full male nudity in this movie.  I'm not bringing it up as an enticement to watch or anything!  I just didn't want anyone to be surprised.

Comments

[Elaine Allen]

Suzanne -

This really is a beautiful film. It also is one of my favorites. I think this is where I first fell in love with Julian Sands - LOL!

Elaine Allen

[Suzanne M.]

I know! He is wonderful! I also liked Daniel Day Lewis in "The Age of Innocence". He was so gorgeous in "Last of the Mohicans" that it is hard to reconcile that he is prissy Cecil in this movie.

Suzanne

[Elaine Allen]

Hi Suzanne -

Daniel Day Lewis, oh mama! I had to go out and buy another copy of "Last of the Mohicans". I lent it to someone and they lost it. Daniel Day Lewis is such a versatile actor, very intense.

Elaine

[Penny]

I have also loved this movie since it came out and have watched it countless times - such a great "escape" movie. I wanted to be Lucy Honeychurch even if she would get peevish after playing Beethoven.