The observation and cinematic craft that marked The Wedding Banquet
transfer wonderfully to this Thompson-penned period piece. The
interlocking fortunes of sisters Elinor (Thompson) and Marianne
(Winslet), left at the financial mercy of evil sister-in-law Fanny
(Harriet Walter) after their father's death, may hold few surprises;
but Lee ensures that audiences breathe a sigh of relief when
long-eyelashed seducer Willoughby (Wise) is discovered, and Charles
(Grant) chooses Elinor over lispy social climber Lucy (Imogen
Stubbs). Austen-haters and adorers will find much to admire in the
ensemble work, witty script and restrained locations. Bonnets off to
Rickman and Winslet especially for perfect performances.
