22 December 2009
Jane Campion has always been a sensualist who celebrates and elevates the passion and urgent creativity of her characters while making sure we know their domestic world intimately; think of Angel at My Table, The Piano and Holy Smoke.
In Bright Star, the film begins with an image of a hand stitching in extreme close up.
This sets the tone as she explores the relationship between the penniless 19th century Romantic poet John Keats and his neighbour, Fanny Brawne, fashion victim and accomplished dressmaker.
Initially hostile to one another, Campion manages to convey the intense emotions of the young lovers in the constrained environment of their shared house.
Abbie Cornish as Fanny brings a boldness and dignity to her character while Ben Whishaw’s portrayal of Keats has a convincing elegance and delicacy.
Kerry Fox excels as Fanny’s mother. The film is both spare and sensual; like Keats’ poems. Recommended.
Four stars
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