Film Review: Anonymous

Derek Jacobi, Joely Richardson, Vanessa Redgrave, David Thewlis, Jamie Campbell Bower, Xavier Samuel and of course Rhys Ifans, all come together to present a superbly acted historical thriller, that kept me on the edge of my seat from the first moment to the start of the closing credits.

Historically inaccurate yes, but exceptionally well written. It shows an idea, a "What if?" sort of theory and then proceeds to illustrate it with three dimensional characters that you care about.

That takes skill, not just from the screenwriter, but also from the actors. And considering Mr Ifan's performance, it makes you wonder why on earth he doesn't get more attention from his dramatic roles as he does his comedic ones. For most, he is remembered most as the Welshman, Spike, in Notting Hill.

In much the same way as Mr Samuel is known more as Riley in the Twilight Saga Eclipse, than in more detailed roles and in more diverse films. September, 2.37 are a couple that come to mind. His work in this film shows his range and versatility as an actor.

Roland Emmerich, more often known as the man who brought us films like Independence Day, 2012 and The Day After Tomorrow, keeps his wide sweeping style, but also manages the dialogue scenes rather well. It is an epic film, but never over the top or with unnecessary special effects. The big scenes are big, and the small, small. It just shows, what can happen, when its done well.

Comments

  1. Today's quotes comes from films that are also historical and keep you riveted from beginning to end.
    "Pitt the Younger: Is that the main course?
    William Wilberforce: No. It's the Duke of Clarence."

    "Lionel Logue: You still stammered on the 'W'.
    King George VI: Well I had to throw in a few so they knew it was me."

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