The Dresser

1402: not bad

It's a bit predictable, and once or twice I got the sneaking notion that integrity was being sacrificed for the theatrics, but overall a very good movie. The Shakespearean tragedy really seeps into the plot itself, but The Dresser is constantly rescued from melodrama by cold showers of ironic British humor.

* Casting, Acting : 8 * Script : 6 * Directing, Aura : 7 * Ease of Viewing : 4 * Naked Eye : 6

Fine, low-key drama with two equally great performances at the forefront from Finney and Courtenay, whose character arcs were both heartbreaking in their own ways. Even more fascinating though is the very vivid recreation of life behind the scenes of the theatre world; especially loved the creation of the Lear storm sequence and supporting performance by Eileen Atkins. Interesting that this very restrained film would come from BULLITT director Peter Yates! Train station sequence also memorable.

There are quite a few excellent scenes in this, but somehow it never congealed into an excellent film for me. I certainly can't fault the writing or the performances; it's more that a drama about the ugly end of sanity, love and civility during the war didn't particularly enrich my life--I spent the running time feeling terrible and frustrated for Norman, and then felt disappointed at the end when I found out why he and Madge stayed. It felt cheap.

Courtenay and Finney are both wonderful in this, and the screenplay--like the original play--gives each many opportunities to shine.

It is a battle between two great actors (Finney and Courtenay). I can't decide which one was better.

Score based on distant memory.

Excellent.

I know perfectly well I'm supposed to love this but somehow it just doesn't grab me. Love that bit at the train station, though