Bright Star Film

5 out of 5

One of the most beautiful and dreamy films of the year, Bright Star explores how one of the most well-known British poets, John Keats, developed a relationship with a neighbour girl, Fanny Brawne. The film is gorgeously shot with beautiful colours streaming from costumes and lighting to the outside locations, including an enlightening blue forest landscape. But the stunning visual beauty of the film doesn’t take away from its emotional impact.

Just as John and Fanny begin their encounter as questioning and individualistic people, so does the viewer. But slowly, we all become seduced by the beauty of John’s poetry and passion and Fanny’s outspokenness and tenderness. Slowly but surely, we fall in love with them both just as they fall in love with each other. The passion of their relationship plays out for the viewer, with multiple obstacles being removed. Societal norms are discarded as is the advice of friends in the face of emotions that grab hold of John and Fanny. Or so we imagine. So we hope. As any movie based on a historical real life person and event, quite a bit of the movie may be fiction or pure imagination on the part of the screenwriter and director. But ultimately that does not matter. Any questions about authenticity do not dilute the emotional experience of watching youth brazen with the creative spirit and zest for life find someone who they cannot help but completely become lost in.

The movie is certainly a romantic story. Few viewers can not be seduced by the passion of John and Fanny’s relationship. But without being too obvious or saccharine sweet, the film takes a sour turn, as life so often does. The result of which is one of the best and most emotional acting displays by actress Abbie Cornish. Utterly brilliant.

Just like real love, the movie will inspire, enliven, and ultimately tragically break the viewer’s heart. But it is certainly a journey worth taking and watching. For days afterward, the words of John Keats and the magical music that accompanies the film will stay with you.

If you like Bright Star, watch All the Real Girls – a modern take starring Paul Schneider, who plays John Keat’s best friend (Charles Armitage Brown) in Bright Star.