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MISS POTTER
  Publicity Stills of "Miss Potter"
(Courtesy from GV)
 
 

Genre: Drama
Director: Chris Noonan
Cast: Renée Zellweger, Ewan McGregor, Emily Watson, Peter Fonda
RunTime: 1 hr 32 mins
Released By: GV
Rating: PG
Official Website: http://www.misspotter-themovie.com

Opening Day: 1 Feb 2007

Synopsis :

Beatrix Potter was a literary phenomenon of the early 20th Century. At a time when most young women of her class aimed only to make a good marriage, Beatrix became an iconic figure, swimming quietly, but with great fortitude, against the tide. She created a series of books and
characters that are as beloved today as they were a hundred years ago, and since their publication they have never been out of print. In addition, by the time she died in 1943, Beatrix Potter had purchased vast swathes of the Lake District that she left to the then fledgling British conservation trust, the National Trust. That so much of this glorious countryside that inspired her, remains as it was in Beatrix Potter’s day for others to enjoy, is her bequest to the nation. This is her story….

Movie Review:

Director Chris Noonan last charmed us more than 10 years ago with a talking pig in Babe (1995). With the vast advancements in animation technology, how will he approach Peter Rabbit in a biopic that illustrates
the author’s enchanting life?

Thankfully, the filmmaker from Down Under has not resorted to flashy and showy animation, and that is true to the art of Peter Rabbit, a well-loved children story book character created by Beatrix Potter.

The loveable 20th Century author is brought to life by Oscar winner Renee Zellweger in a 92-minute movie that chronicles her success, love life, loss and the eventual bliss that made her the woman she was.

Zellweger aptly plays the author with a signature pout and accent, and these have been put to good use, as the character is refreshingly alive on the big screen. The cynical may not welcome this saccharine sweet characterization of the author, but it’d be no doubt a crowd-pleaser. Zellweger was nominated at the recent Golden Globes for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for this cheery portrayal, but lost out to The Devil Wears Prada’s Meryl Streep.

Also bringing the smiles is Ewan McGregor who plays Potter’s publisher. The two fall in love and accompanied by scenic backdrops the two lovebirds will melt the coldest heart in any viewer. Who better to play this gentleman than McGregor himself? The man who was a Jedi knight has great chemistry with Zellweger, considering that they once sang duets in Peyton Reed’s retro comedy Down With Love (2003).

Emily Watson also puts in a refined and scene-stealing performance as McGregor’s elder sister who does not believe in true love, completing the trio of sturdy main cast.

Viewers who expect a complicated storyline won’t find this movie impressive, because other than a major turn of events somewhere in the last 30 minutes, there is not much of a plot to speak of.

But this is exactly the essence of Potter’s children books.

Characterized by the natural water colour illustrations of the adorable animals, the books mirror this movie in a tender and sweet manner. The occasional humour incorporates a certain mischief and cheekiness that works to its advantage. Director Noonan has approached this film with warmth and most importantly, a human touch that will please the masses.

The period drama also brings its viewers to some of the most scenic spots in Scotland, England and Isle of Man where the countryside brings peace and calmness to our hurried souls. The prim and proper-ness of the entire movie is further enhanced by a classical score composed by Nigel Westlake.

Those with simple expectations will adore this picturesque film’s simple look. With everything in place, this movie aims to bring a smile to the meanest scrooge in you, with the magical and fantastical life of Miss Potter.

Movie Rating:



(Like a children’s tale, this movie will charm you with its innocent sweetness)

Review by John Li

 


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