A-plus for ‘Atonement’

>Archive - PWW Print Edition Archive - 2008 Editions - Feb. 9, 2008


 

“Atonement” came out last December but I passed on it. It was nominated for the Academy Award for best picture, so finally I went to see it.

Anyone who believes this movie is too long just does not understand the art. I appreciate the fine job done with lenses, filters, lighting and framing. The director really understands camera work and his efforts enhance the overall presentation. Additionally, it is amazing to see such wonderful props, costumes and sets created to transport the audience back to that five-year period between 1935 and 1940.

You almost feel like the crew traveled back in time to shoot their picture. For me, it was like walking through my grandmother’s house when I was a child. I loved the old typewriters, the old 78s, the old lighters, the old styles and everything else that made this movie feel like one of those classic black and white films of the era, except shot in full, living color. It is obvious that great care was taken to create the perfect backdrop for the telling of the story. When you view this film, let yourself go and just enjoy the ride.

You will believe the movie is a love story about how life events come between young lovers and shatter their dreams, but the story is so much deeper than that. The story shows how our actions today can haunt us for a lifetime, sometimes even beyond our ability to repair, or our ability to “atone” for our sins. No one will leave this movie without being touched emotionally.

Some might call this a “chick flick,” but do not be fooled. It is a dramatic lesson of life with a powerful message for us all, and best enjoyed on the big screen. “Atonement” is a definite A-plus without doubt.