
AN IDEAL HUSBAND
A dirty secret threatens the political and social demise of
Sir Robert Chilton in this adaptation of the Oscar Wilde play
set in 1895, London.
With the arrival of Laura Cheveley (Julianne Moore), Chilton (Jeremy Northam), his wife
Gertrude (Cate Blanchett), as well as Chilton's sister Mabel (Minnie Driver) and best friend
Lord Arthur Goring (Rupert Everett) get caught up in a blackmail scheme being perpetrated by Mrs. Cheveley.
Mrs. Cheveley has a certain letter that is sure to wreck Chilton's career, seriously
compromise his status in high society, and destroy the most precious love he has with his
wife.
It is amazing how the subjects of treachery, connivance and duplicity can be so palatable
when presented in costume, refined language and accent. This is a superb screenplay by
director Oliver Parker.
It's a high stakes duel of wits. Actions and words are cleverly mistaken all because it
would be impolite in this society to interrupt, stop a departure or reveal one's
true feelings. That's high society for you.
Lighthearted moments come from Goring's dalliances with the ladies and his inability to
commit himself to Mabel. He is both extraordinarily vain and arrogant, yet soft around
the edges which makes him quite likeable. It is his character upon which the solution to the problem
presented by Mrs. Cheveley, resides.
All of the elements here make for an intriguing and well played drama.
Lotta says don't be mislead by the videobox graphic. "An Ideal Husband" looks like it's ightweight
fare but it's really complex in characterization
and storyline. An excellent rental choice.
|