Appearing
on the current Durban International Film Festival is Great Expectations directed by Mike Newell. (Review by Pranesh
Maharaj)
Having
read the book, and thus knowing the story; one watches this remake with the
hope of still being entertained. The producers are undoubtedly aware of this
and spared no part of their already big budget to tell the story with the same
enthusiasm Dickens used in his book.
I hadn’t
watched any previous versions so I don’t have the benchmark that other audience
members might boast; although I feel at an advantage. I looked forward to
seeing how close my imagination was to that of the director and he surpassed my
“Great Expectations”.
Helena
Bonham Carter impressed me as Miss Havisham and was delightful in that she has
made the character accessible. I looked forward to seeing her again after each
of her scenes. The entire movie made me want to drag my kids into the cinema
and say ‘See, Dickens is not boring!’
The
screenplay was designed to take the audience on a ride with Pip; to feel his
fears, his admiration, his strength, his determination, his regret and his
love. Which is why you wouldn’t miss Holiday Grainger’s striking beauty and her
rendition of Estella. I have always believed that the piece is a genuine love
story that surpasses the confines of social hierarchies, sinister arrangements
and perversity. Mike Newell and David Nicholls gave me my version or yet again,
in my opinion, Charles Dickens’s version.
The
entire script was aimed at taking the story to the next level; more than likely
with all the new technology available. I found myself complimenting the art
team over and over. I liked their take on the streets of London at the time. It
helped to feel how overwhelmed Pip might have been at the ways of the city to
which he was not accustomed; much less that of being a gentleman.
Watch
the film and take the family along.
Great
Expectations will
have two further showings at Cinema Nouveau Gateway: July 27 at 14h00 and July 28
at 16h00.
Tickets
for DIFF are through the respective venues and prices range from R25 to R35
(R50 for 3D screenings), except at Luthuli Museum, Blue Waters, Ekhaya and Bay
of Plenty lawns, which are free of charge.
Programme
booklets with the full screening schedule and synopses of all the films are
available free at cinemas, and other public information outlets. Full festival
details can also be found on www.durbanfilmfest.co.za
or by calling 031 260 2506. – Pranesh Maharaj
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