The Invisible Woman (2013)

Now this really did feel like such a type of cliché, the type of British period piece that puts people to sleep. it sounds like quite a lazy criticism, and in a way it is, but it comes down to that. This was just not very interesting, and as a result, kind of dull. It's not "bad" though so I feel like I owe it at least some stars, and the acting is good and the technical aspects very good as well. I just wish it was better as a film overall. Fiennes is good, but jones is really the heart and soul of the film and remains a very interesting, captivating performer that I hope to see a lot of in the future. So yes, I don't really recommend this, but it's definitely an admirable effort from all involved.

Charles Dickens and his love. The question would arouse who or what would that be? The question sort of gets answered here. But as the title suggests we get the story of a woman. Which makes this more than just a story about Mr. Dickens. It makes it a time piece, about how society worked back then (probably) and the status of people in society in that era as well.The acting is top notch and you will cherish not only the two main actors but everyone else involved. The civility shown in most cases is almost heart breaking, especially considering what is being done and said (one scene at a birthday party comes immediately to mind, which could be called embarrassing to say the least for both parties involved). Feelings get mixed up and life goes on ... but with what sacrifices? And with what gains?

In Margate, England 1883, Mrs. Wharton Robinson/Nelly (Felicity Jones) is haunted by her past. Years earlier, Nelly at 18 joined her mother Mrs. Frances Ternan (Kristin Scott Thomas) at one of Charles Dickens (Ralph Fiennes)'s play. She catches his eye even though she's not a particularly good actress. Her mother is worried. Dickens eventually starts an affair with her as he announces his separation from his embarrassed wife in a public letter in the newspaper. In the process, he would write "Great Expectations".I don't think I've ever seen the character of Charles Dickens in a movie. I don't know what expectations I have of him but this is probably not what I imagined. He is basically a rock star and he is a flawed human being. There are some really powerful scenes of their relationship and the moral constraints of the day. However those scenes are sandwiched between lots of slow uninteresting scenes. The acting is all good. Felicity Jones gives both the innocent and the hurt. Ralph Fiennes gives an interesting performance although I would want a more overpowering presence. As a director, he shows that he's capable of doing the work, but I wish it revealed more of his personal style. In general, this is a functional period piece with flashes of greatness.

In the mid 1800's, Charlie Dickens (Ray Fiennes) is the equivalent of a modern day movie star. His books are read by many, many folks and he also dabbles in theater productions with a close friend (Tom Hollander). At home, he is a good father to his ten children but, alas, his wife and he are more friends than amorous creatures. This is sad to Mr. Dickens, for he, at 45, is still quite in love with love making. Into his life comes an all female family of performers, the Ternans. Mama Frances (Kristin Scott Thomas) and her three daughters are eeking out a meager but respectable living acting in various plays for the London crowd. The two older daughters are quite talented but the youngest, Nelly (Felicity Jones), in spite of being very beautiful, struggles to remember lines and display vibrant emotions. Nevertheless, audiences cheer her for her loveliness. Slowly, Dickens becomes enamored with Nelly, coming to her performances and making efforts to visit the family. Yet, 18 year old Nelly is most reluctant to enter into a relationship where marriage is not possible. To demonstrate his love for the lady, Dickens makes a public announcement of his separation from his wife. This is quite scandalous for the times. Will Nelly, who does indeed fancy Dickens and vastly admires his work, relent and declare her love for Charles? This beautiful film is fact-based, as Dickens did have an "invisible woman" beyond the vows of his marriage. As the two main principals, Fiennes and Jones are wonderful. Fiennes also deserves praise for the film's very adept direction. Hollander, Scott-Thomas, and all of the lesser actors are engaging as well. Add on stunning costumes, admirable sets and a polished script and this is a movie serious fans will cherish. If you are one of these, make visible efforts to find it.