When this movie was released in 1992 it sounded worthwhile. I was (and remain) a fan of many of the actors, enjoyed Rita Rudner's comedy, and had been impressed with Kenneth Branagh's work to date.
But I never got around to seeing it until recently, and now I understand why it received middling to poor reviews on its release.
From the first scene following the opening montage, the entire film feels simultaneously flat and strident. None of the characters feels natural. Each actor is playing an archetype, and with no subtlety. The script is cliché-ridden and the actors seem compelled or directed to over-deliver every line. The final scenes are truly painful due to the hackneyed, awkward delivery, and the forced gaiety of the final scene.
There were a few enjoyable moments, but the movie never comes together. When it was over I felt relieved, and embarrassed for the participants.
The house and grounds the story is set in are gorgeous, though.
But I never got around to seeing it until recently, and now I understand why it received middling to poor reviews on its release.
From the first scene following the opening montage, the entire film feels simultaneously flat and strident. None of the characters feels natural. Each actor is playing an archetype, and with no subtlety. The script is cliché-ridden and the actors seem compelled or directed to over-deliver every line. The final scenes are truly painful due to the hackneyed, awkward delivery, and the forced gaiety of the final scene.
There were a few enjoyable moments, but the movie never comes together. When it was over I felt relieved, and embarrassed for the participants.
The house and grounds the story is set in are gorgeous, though.