Atonement (2007) Review

Atonement

By Shane Train • February 20, 2008

Starring: James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Saoirse Ronan, Brenda Blethyn, Vanessa Redgrave

Director: Joe Wright

Writer(s): Christopher Hampton, Ian McEwan

Studio: Focus, Universal

Rating: R

Official Bar Score:

The year is 1935. The lifestyle is wealthy, fabulous, and full of privilege for young writer Briony Tallis (Saoirse Ronan). All is well for the residents of her family estate as the warmth of the summer sets in. That is until the burnings of desire and lust over shadow Briony’s imagination and judgment. Robbie Turner (James Mcavoy) has an ever growing crush for Briony’s older sister Cecilia (Kiera Knightley). Cecilia also has an infatuation with Robbie but once this is learned by Briony (who has a secret crush for Robbie) love, lust, and deceit clash as the triangle brings an honest family to its knees with tragedy and shame. Through the vivid imagination of Briony her judgment is hindered by jealousy as she knowingly wrongfully accused young Robbie of a grave mis-justice. A crime he did not commit. The lives of the three are forever changed by the actions of a foolish child. Briony, now as an adult is haunted by the mis deeds of her own past seeks out atonement for the sins she has committed. The story tells a tale of enduring love, mercy, and re-invention.

This movie has already been decorated with numerous nominations and awards making this film my pick for Best Picture based on its resume alone. I found the film to be interesting and moving at times. I personally enjoyed the other nominees better than this one but it was a good movie none the less and it I see why it was nominated to begin with. The way it was filmed was both slick but also hard to follow at times as it seemed to jump perceptions quite a bit. The performances were awesome and the story is a classic tale of mis-guided romance. If you enjoy these types of films then I would recommend watching it but if not then your best bet would be to watch Michael Clayton-phenomenal movie!