STAR RATINGS EXPLAINED

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Good

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Tragic

POSTER ART

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FILM DETAILS

Certificate 15

Cast Vanessa Redgrave Keira Knightley James McAvoy Romola Garai Brenda Blethyn Saoirse Ronan Benedict Cumberbatch

Directors Joe Wright

Screenwriters Christopher Hampton

Running Time 123 minutes

Atonement (15)

Plot
1935, and 13 year-old Briony (Ronan) changes the course of several lives when she misreads the relationship between her sister Cecilia (Knightley) and housekeeper’s son Robbie (McAvoy). Later, as World War II rages, she tries to atone for her mistake.

Verdict
An adaptation at least as good as the novel - complex, delicate and devastating. Gorgeous cinematography, a lilting score and near-faultless performances, under Wright’s assured direction, make this the first contender for next year’s Best Picture Oscar.


Reviewer: Helen O'Hara

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