Henry James and most critics writhed in their graves at Campion's take
on Isabel Archer, but this is by far the best James adaptation of the last
decade. A sharp script, opulent locations and a Jamesian sense for
period detail and precise gesture bring the novel to vibrant, menacing
life, unspoilt by unnecessary experimentation. Like James, Campion
produces sharply-etched cameos, particularly from Parker as
prurient Henrietta Stackpole, and Hershey as dark horse Madame Merle.
Malkovich looks like a stork in a china shop; Kidman is too passionate as
Archer, but she shines in the final scene with the superb Donovan.
