the remains of the day

The Remains of the Day – 5/5


genre: drama/romance
director: James Ivory (Howard's End, A Room With a View)
year: 1993
length: 2hr. 14 min.
language: English
RT rating: 97%
my keywords: repressed love, loyalty, butler, politics, estate

the history of a relationship between the head butler and housekeeper on an English estate post WWI.

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this was the first of Merchant Ivory Production  i had seen and it is now one of my favorite gems - one i will never forget.  exquisite performances from Anthony Hopkins, whom i adore, and Emma Thompson. such deep, powerful passion penetrates the walls that divide the characters and conceal the true feelings of Mr. Stevens who maintains an unbreakable loyalty to his employer despite his personal beliefs and dilemmas. though his expressions are so minimal and stringent,  it is impossible not to sense his feelings and not to be moved by the heart-warming performance given by Hopkins. this film is quite a full experience created by a plot rich with the strifes of international politics and the intricacy of a most endearing, yet restrained, romantic relationship that is no less convincing or moving than that between two who have had the pleasure of mere touch, hug, and kiss.

: similar movies : Howard's End, 84 Charing Cross Rd.