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irishbelle98
Reviews
The Book of Ruth: Journey of Faith (2009)
Really Inaccurate
The Girls' Group I am in is studying the Book of Ruth right now, so I was very excited when I found this movie on Netflix. However, it was a huge disappointment! The actors' make-up was far too prominent, and the costumes garish. Naomi even had a french manicure, and Ruth was wearing flip-flops! Boaz's plastic Mardi-Gras necklace was not much better. Overall, this movie showed a neglect towards accuracy. The Jewish customs and their view of God were misinterpreted- Naomi spoke of God as a Christian would, not a Jew. The conversation was casual and modern. There were also quality issues. When Ruth, Orpah, and Naomi were setting out, the wind was so loud you could hardly hear the dialogue. Also, the physical attraction between Boaz and Ruth highly disturbed me. And the fact that Boaz fired his workers simply because they could not tell him the name of ONE gleaner. In the book, Boaz treats Ruth well because of the kindness of his heart, not her beauty. In fact, her looks are never mentioned in the bible. His remarks are pointed and shmoozy- not appropriate for the times. Ruth's mother-in-law was a case. It made it rather obvious why Ruth went with Naomi! She had nothing to go back to but an over-controlling pagan mother with serious gossip issues. Long story short, I would not recommend this movie to anyone who has read the book of Ruth or who knows anything about ancient Israel.
Persuasion (2007)
Okay Version
This adaptation of Persuasion was so-so in my mind. The music and cinematography was pretty well-done, but there were some issues in casting (I think). Sally Hawkins was altogether to flimsy and breathless for my taste. In the book, Anne Elliot is somewhat of a beautiful mix of a Lizzy Bennet and a Fanny Price. In this film, she was just . .. odd. And of no personal offense to her, the scene where she is crying over Wentworth's alleged engagement is awful! The sniffling and wiping is just too much. I think she lacked some of the "spunk" Anne is supposed to have (though it is not much) Wentworth was definitely better than Anne, but there was almost a cockiness and immaturity that wasn't at all attractive. However, he was handsome and his expressions were good. Though these two had there qualities as separate characters, they did NOT go together as a couple. There was always an awkwardness about them- even when she is accepting his proposal (I won't even BEGIN on that disturbing "kiss"). Overall, I found that I wasn't even very rejoicing at the final scene where he has given her the house. Despite all these complaints, this was a nicely made adaptation. I would recommend watching it if you haven't already read the book.
Mansfield Park (2007)
If you have any sense for accuracy- DON'T WATCH!!!!!
As a devoted Austen fan, I find this film highly offensive. I have read many of Jane Austen's novels, Mansfield Park being one of them. I enjoyed the depth and character development. However, these elements were annihilated in this "adaptation"- if it even deserves that title. They allow no time to get to know Fanny, and her struggles and feelings. Edmund is not given HALF his moral credit, and his feelings for Miss Crawford are prematurely introduced. On another note, Lady Bertram is far too shrewd. There is never a relationship between her and Fanny, as is portrayed in the book.
Overall, I was greatly disappointed. I realize that not every detail can be incorporated, but I expect key plot points and character aspects to be involved. Do not waste your time on this film, unless you enjoy low quality period dramas.
I hope in the future, that a more worthy production of Mansfield may be created for the enjoyment of TRUE Janeites.