(Flash Review)
I haven't seen too many 1800's period pieces that show a wide spectrum of societal classes in depth without focusing the majority of time to the upper echelon. Reese plays a young woman working her way up from an orphan up to a woman with a mid to upper class status. She captivates young gentleman of status and military rank with her charm and looks as well as befriends their mothers with her intellect. The film has an engaging story with crisp pacing and some very picturesque scenery shots. One small quibble is that this movie spans several years yet none of the characters really seem to visually age or change too much. This was also based on a book and many reviewers complained that the main character lacked the original's sharp, ruthless and bold persona. I have not read it so that didn't factor into my rating.
I haven't seen too many 1800's period pieces that show a wide spectrum of societal classes in depth without focusing the majority of time to the upper echelon. Reese plays a young woman working her way up from an orphan up to a woman with a mid to upper class status. She captivates young gentleman of status and military rank with her charm and looks as well as befriends their mothers with her intellect. The film has an engaging story with crisp pacing and some very picturesque scenery shots. One small quibble is that this movie spans several years yet none of the characters really seem to visually age or change too much. This was also based on a book and many reviewers complained that the main character lacked the original's sharp, ruthless and bold persona. I have not read it so that didn't factor into my rating.