Creation

This film will warm your heart.

Charles Darwin is famous for his work "On The Origin of Species". I'm sure you've heard of this little book. And I'm sure you're familiar with the photo of him as an elderley bearded man. So it's understandable if you were to expect this film to provide you with little visual spectacular and little captivating drama.

But this film is not so much about his studies, but is instead about a small period in his life as a young father and how his life influenced the writing and publishing of his book. At this time in his life, Charles is struggling to find balance in his life and in his work, fearful of what is right and what is wrong, haunted by the sorrowful death of their eldest daughter.

Paul Bettany is mesmerising as Charles Darwin, with his gorgeous smile. And real wife, Jennifer Connolley plays on-screen wife, Emma Darwin. Together they are superb. I can't fault either of them. Their illustrious careers are indicative of the wonderful performances they give again in this film.

I love this film because it's beautiful. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing those unique moments in nature, like when you see the dust floating in the sunlight and it feels as if time stands still. The story is beautiful; it's emotional, raw, uplifting and ultimately its inspiring.

One of my favourites this year. An unexpected delight.

The Young Victoria

I do love biopics and this film was no exception. The element of truth (albeit it sometimes a loose tracing of truth) fascinates me and I find it easier to connect with these films, remembering that these people were real and ordinary once upon a time.

The Young Victoria was a fascinating film, exploring the life and early years of Queen Victoria who reigned as Queen of England from 1837 til 1901. Victoria was crowned as Queen at the very young age of 18. This film establishes her transition from childhood into life as Queen: a lonely child eager to fulfill her destiny so that she can make a difference in her life and the lives of others. Secluded from the world during her childhood she soon finds a friend and soulmate in Albert. This film is their love story.

Emily Blunt was regal in her performance as Victoria; confident, determined and stubborn. However, her youth was not convincing. Perhaps though I'm wrong and this portrayal - void of childhood mischievousness - is an accurate representation of the young woman who grew up in seclusion. Emily Blunt is however wonderful and engaging in her role as Victoria. Yet Rupert Friend steals the show as Albert. And so he should; a powerful force in this film and a powerful force in Victoria's life.

Without a doubt the design of the film is superb and without fault. Costumes and locations are gorgeous and set the scene perfectly, transporting you back in time into a royal world.

If you are intrigued in English history then you are sure to love this film. However I'm not sure it will have a significant response from those who already know the story of Victoria and Albert; it's lacking deep exploration of the characters and insight into the wonderful Queen she became and her relevance. At it's core its a simple love story with beautiful design and strong performances.

The Last Station

An adaptation of Tolstoy's biography, this film is at its core an exploration of love. Set during Tolstoy's last mission in life to promote educational reform, the film sadly seems to fall short in providing any depth and insight into his great work. However, the film's strength lies in the story of his relationship with his wife; a love story that is often overlooked in history. Their love is complicated and testing, and it is Tolstoy's dedication to his work that drives the story of their relationship.

Helen Mirren steals this film with her spellbinding performance. Her performance is powerful and her character is raw and vulnerable, giving us a very honest insight into the person that was Tolstoy's wife Sophia. Every second that she is on the screen you're absorbed. She is violent, mad, jealous, passionate. A simply amazing performance and makes this film worth the watch.

In the end I believe this film was in fact intended to be a journey of love and not an account of Tolstoy's work alone, just as the filmmakers have chosen to open the film with his famous quote from War and Peace: "Everything that I know, I know only because I love...".

Wonderful performances and a wonderful love story full of tears and laughter. A must see.