Based on Ian McEvan’s critically acclaimed novel of the same name, Atonement starring James McAvoy and Keira Knightley is one of the nominations in the best picture category this year at the Oscars. A nomination well deserved indeed.
The year is 1935. 13-year-old fledgling writer Briony Tallis(Saoirse Ronan), the youngest of three, and her family live a life of wealth and privilege. One hot summer day when Briony can’t get any of her visiting cousins to perform in the first play she has ever written she witnesses a scene by the fountain with her elder sister Cecilia(Keira Knightley) and the housekeeper’s educated son, Robbie Turner(James McAvoy), stoking Briony’s vivid imagination.
Robbie carries a torch for the headstrong Cecilia and believes that Cecilia has similar feelings and all it will take is for one spark to get this relationship started. When it does, Briony — who has a crush on Robbie — is compelled to interfere, going so far as accusing Robbie of a crime he did not commit. Cecilia and Robbie declare their love for each other, but he is arrested and with Briony bearing false witness, the course of three lives is changed forever.
Briony continues to seek forgiveness for her childhood misdeed. Through a terrible and courageous act of imagination, she finds the path to her uncertain atonement, and to an understanding of the power of enduring love.
Spanning several decades Atonement touches you immensely. The accusation of a young girl convinced she is right compels two lovers on a journey they never wished to embark on.
Kiera Knightley as the headstrong Cecilia who stands by Robbie through the worst is compelling.
James McAvoy brings to life the anguished Robbie shamed for life for a crime he did not commit.
Saoirse Ronan, Romola Garai and Vanessa Redgrave playing Briony at different ages are marvelous as they make the journey of Briony’s shock, betrayal, regret and atonement.
Director Joe Wright tells a gripping tale with several scenes retold in different view points.
This is a fantastic watch!!!