Very good adaptation of a classic book. The characters in the novel: Zeena, Maggie and Ethan, are etched on to full screen very much as they appear in Edith Wharton's novel. The despair of poverty and isolation is poignant in this starkly beautiful film. The most intriguing aspects of the film center on Ethan's wife, Zeena, even though she is not a co-protagonist. Patricia Arquette is riveting as a girl of personality and looks who nevertheless has no options in life. Perfect casting, acting and dialogue. Gives you an intense, visual sense of the time and place. Suspense emerges from character. The end is truly a surprise though a surprise ending was not necessary. This is a memorable film.
Review of Ethan Frome
