Variety
Even the ultra-capable Norton and Watts aren't fully able to galvanize viewer interest in their narrowly self-absorbed characters.
Full review
The Painted Veil
In 1925, Kitty (Naomi Watts) is an upper class socialite closing in on an age at which it would simply be unacceptable not to be married. She accepts a proposal from a bacteriologist, Dr. Walter Fane (Edward Norton), and the pair move to Shanghai. In this colonial society, Kitty is introduced to English Vice Counsul Charles Townsend (Liev Schreiber), and begins an adulterous affair with him.
When Walter finds out about this, he decides to accept a job in a remote Chinese village ravaged by the Cholera epidemic, and takes Kitty with him as vengeange. Here, however, both spouses find a new purpose, and find themselves rediscovering each other in true romantic fashion.
When Walter finds out about this, he decides to accept a job in a remote Chinese village ravaged by the Cholera epidemic, and takes Kitty with him as vengeange. Here, however, both spouses find a new purpose, and find themselves rediscovering each other in true romantic fashion.
Winner of Golden Globe for best original score 2007
125 minsUSA, ChinaMandarin / English / French
DramaRomance
- Director:
- John Curran ('We Don't Live Here Anymore')
- Writer:
- Ron Nyswaner
- Cast:
- Edward NortonNaomi WattsLiev SchreiberToby JonesZoe TelfordDiana Rigg
The Painted Veil / Reviews
The New York Times
An inveterate stealer and masticator of scenes, Mr. Norton is very fine here, especially early on, before his billing gets the better of the story and he begins riding around heroically on horseback.
Full reviewThe Guardian
I can't praise too highly the cinematography by New Zealander Stuart Dryburgh, whose interiors, shot in a Beijing studio, are as beautifully lit as the paintings of Joseph Wright of Derby.
Full review
Rolling Stone
The Painted Veil has the power and intimacy of a timeless love story. By all means, let it sweep you away.
Full review
New Zealand Herald
Norton, an American, and Australian Watts are so busy struggling with their accents that they never really find their characters' hearts. But it's a solid piece of period escapism.
Full review
Los Angeles Times
Has all the elements in place to be a great epic, but it fails to connect, to paraphrase Maugham's contemporary E.M. Forster, the prose with the passion. It's impeccable, but leaves you cold.
Full review
BBC
Yes, it lags at times, but overall this is a satisfyingly slow-burning romance, beautifully scored and acted.
Full review
Share