Among the many criticisms levelled at modern day cinematic period dramas is that the filmmakers will substitute substantive plot, character development and a meaningful narrative with a lot of beautiful landscapes, pretty outfits and a palette containing all the colours in the spectrum. Sometimes this is true: what is eternally annoying about Moulin Rouge is that whilst the camp style and extravagance is grand and spectacular to look at, it feels like an overcompensation for the holes in the plot and the issues within the narrative. Maybe the advent of technological advancement in film with CGI and colour correction has encouraged some of the more lazy or apathetic film companies not to live up to good story standards.
This is only the second film Rickman has directed; in 1997, he previously directed The Winter Guest. But this is most definitely the largest release he’s put together. It’s a shame he hasn’t directed more work on the basis of this film because it is excellently put together. The way that the scenes are constructed and flow together is really well done. It doesn't end up falling into the usual traps of a period drama film like constant moral quandaries, the fear of God and female characters only concerned with marrying well - whilst there are definite explorations into the issues of morality it isn’t done in a sanctimonious manner. The whole film is refreshingly honest and the care taken into it is evident throughout.
Another point in the film’s favour is in its look. The mise-en-scene is perfect for all of the settings it explores. What’s even better is that the actor’s don’t look as if they’ve been photoshopped into unrealistic images. Everyone actually looks their age which is definitely not a negative statement. There isn’t excessive splatterings of make-up on any of the characters even in the presence of the Court and they all still look excellent. The substance of the narrative isn’t lost among the style which is stunningly supported by a wonderful score composed by Peter Gregson.
This film couldn’t be recommended enough as well as the notion that Alan Rickman should continue to direct and write films.
A Little Chaos is out this Friday