The Duchess
The Duchess of Devonshire, Georgiana Spencer (Keira Knightley), was a direct ancestor to Princess Diana. And, like the People's Princess, was glamorous and adored by the common hoard. She changed the face of British politics, as leader of the Whig party. Georgina could also beat any man in a game of cards, drink him under the table and outwit the poor lad in a second.
But, despite all this power and popularity, her old husband, The Duke (Ralph Feinnes) couldn't be seduced by this sharp-witted minx. In turning elsewhere for affection, namely a handsome young politician, she risked everything.
- Director:
- Saul Dibb ('Bullet Boy')
- Writer:
- Saul DibbAnders Thomas JensenJeffrey Hatcher
- Cast:
- Keira KnightleyRalph FiennesDominic CooperCharlotte RamplingHayley AtwellAidan McArdle
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Reviews & comments
Flicks, Team
flicksNew queen of period dramas Keira Knightley is in her element here, donning skyscraper hairpieces and unfathomably complex robes to play a rock 'n' roll noblewoman in a time when her sort were expected to shut up and produce babies. Ralph Fiennes is equally well cast as her pathetic older husband - loveless, merciless and desperate for a male heir - and for the most part things play out pretty much as you'd expect, with über-glamorous party scenes, British Tourist Board-friendly stately home shots and costumes that will make needlework aficionados swoon.
Brilliant costume drama
I aaw this movie sometime ago but can't believe no one else has reviewed it. I confess I do love period films but I am more enthusiastic about Dangerous Liasons than all the boring Tudor films, if you know what I mean. This film has everything stunning cosies, superb acting, and a truely outrageous and amazing story that is based on fact.... honestly what...
Urban Cinefile
pressDramatic and emotionally satisfying - if not for the poor old characters - the film looks fabulous, thanks to top production design and cinematography. Rachel Portman's score also works a treat, and the film's core themes are cleverly handled by director Saul Dibb.
Sunday Star-Times
pressAided by Amanda Foreman's respected biography of the duchess, the director and Knightley fashion a portrayal of her as a tragic figure possessed of immense passion and fortitude.
Rolling Stone
pressMake no mistake, the film belongs to Knightley. There's a fire in her eyes that won't be extinguished, and it keeps us in her corner despite, or more likely because of, the mischief she sparks.
New Zealand Herald
pressIt's well cast and acted, visually beautiful but ultimately a bland costume drama.
Newshub
pressIf you're in the mood for a period piece, some flouncy dresses and some inbreeding, then The Duchess could be right up your alley.
Christchurch Press
pressThe Duchess is likely to figure on the periphery of the awards season, but don't expect it to feature at this year's Royal Film Performance.
Flicks, Team
flicksNew queen of period dramas Keira Knightley is in her element here, donning skyscraper hairpieces and unfathomably complex robes to play a rock 'n' roll noblewoman in a time when her sort were expected to shut up and produce babies. Ralph Fiennes is equally well cast as her pathetic older husband - loveless, merciless and desperate for a male heir - and for the most part things play out pretty much as you'd expect, with über-glamorous party scenes, British Tourist Board-friendly stately home shots and costumes that will make needlework aficionados swoon.
Urban Cinefile
pressDramatic and emotionally satisfying - if not for the poor old characters - the film looks fabulous, thanks to top production design and cinematography. Rachel Portman's score also works a treat, and the film's core themes are cleverly handled by director Saul Dibb.
Sunday Star-Times
pressAided by Amanda Foreman's respected biography of the duchess, the director and Knightley fashion a portrayal of her as a tragic figure possessed of immense passion and fortitude.
Rolling Stone
pressMake no mistake, the film belongs to Knightley. There's a fire in her eyes that won't be extinguished, and it keeps us in her corner despite, or more likely because of, the mischief she sparks.
New Zealand Herald
pressIt's well cast and acted, visually beautiful but ultimately a bland costume drama.
Newshub
pressIf you're in the mood for a period piece, some flouncy dresses and some inbreeding, then The Duchess could be right up your alley.
Christchurch Press
pressThe Duchess is likely to figure on the periphery of the awards season, but don't expect it to feature at this year's Royal Film Performance.
Brilliant costume drama
I aaw this movie sometime ago but can't believe no one else has reviewed it. I confess I do love period films but I am more enthusiastic about Dangerous Liasons than all the boring Tudor films, if you know what I mean. This film has everything stunning cosies, superb acting, and a truely outrageous and amazing story that is based on fact.... honestly...
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