Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Ethan Frome

I loved the Edith Wharton novella, Ethan Frome, and was excited to watch this 1993 movie version with Liam Neeson, Patricia Arquette, and Joan Allen.

I thought it was done well. The movie captured a particular oppressive mood very well.

But the love story between Ethan and Mattie didn't come to life as much as it needed to. It kind of just seemed like they hooked up because it was convenient (don't mean to give anything away). There were moments that they tried to convey smoldering desire, but it wasn't enough. In order for the movie to work, the viewer needs to feel the significance and desperation of their love.

Liam Neeson and Joan Allen were wonderful. Patricia Arquette was bit stupid seeming as Mattie, giggling too much...

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

don't remember ethan hawke--found it hard to watch--the story was too dark, so I suppose the adaptation WAS successful...

Diana said...

My mistake!!! LIAM NEESON. Will correct...