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The actors keep this interesting, but as a story it drifts and rambles.
All the meticulousness, intelligence, taste and superior acting that one expects from Merchant Ivory productions have been brought to bear.
Here's a film for adults. It's also about time to recognize that Mr. Ivory is one of our finest directors, something that critics tend to overlook because most of his films have been literary adaptations.
What do you call filmmakers who make literary entertainment box office in the age of Beavis and Butt-bead? Try miracle workers.
Put Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson and James Fox together and you can expect sterling performances.
A subtle, thoughtful movie.
Moves rather slowly, but the actors and their understated chemistry keep the film riveting, building to a climax that is absolutely heartrending.
Merchant-Ivory's best film by a mile.
Though it offers a host of fine performances in a smoothly crafted, adult drama of unfulfilled love, it lacks the cumulative dramatic impact of the team's best work.
The narrative structure (long flashbacks, letters) is awkward but the actors (Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson in top form) attention to detail is meticulous and piercing considering how muted the emotions are.
Who else but Merchant Ivory to give the big-screen treatment to Ishiguro's Booker Prize-winning novel about class, fascism and the stiff upper lip?
First time I saw it, it destroyed me. Subsequent viewings have not improved my condition.
My choice for the best film of 1993. Impeccably acted and very moving. Anthony Hopkins is phenomenal as Stevens the repressed butler.
A touching tale laced with unforgettable performances
Depending on one's taste for Mechant-Ivory, this is one of their stronger efforts.
Impeccable lead performances
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