The Importance of Being Earnest Poster
Comedy
Drama

The Importance of Being Earnest (2002) Review in 2025

7.5/10
Moderate success

A witty and charming adaptation of Oscar Wilde's classic play, following the misadventures of two young men in Victorian England.

97 minutes
English (Dubbed: None)
Age group: 13-25, Interests: Comedy, Drama
Director:
Oliver Parker
Budget: 10 million USD
Gross: 10 million USD

Family-Friendly Rating

Is this movie suitable for family viewing?

This movie is suitable for family viewing, but some scenes may be too complex for younger children.

CineReview Recommendation

This movie is worth watching for fans of comedy and drama, especially those who enjoy witty dialogue and complex characters. It's suitable for streaming or watching in theaters, but may be more enjoyable in a theater setting due to its witty banter and comedic timing.

Spoiler Alert!

Hover to reveal spoiler summary

The movie revolves around Algernon Moncrieff and Jack Worthing, two friends who create fictional personas to escape their mundane lives. However, things get complicated when they both fall in love with the same woman, Gwendolen Fairfax.

Review Details

story8.00/10

The story is engaging and witty, with a clear structure and well-developed plot twists. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could have been expanded upon.

acting9.00/10

The acting is superb, with each actor delivering a standout performance. The chemistry between the leads is excellent, making their relationships feel genuine and believable.

characters8.50/10

The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique personality to the story. The actors deliver excellent performances, making the characters feel relatable and authentic.

direction8.00/10

The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the story and its characters. However, some scenes feel a bit static and could have benefited from more camera movement or creative editing.

cinematography7.50/10

The cinematography is decent, with some nice shots of the English countryside. However, the lighting can be a bit inconsistent at times, and some scenes feel a bit dark or washed out.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The movie's witty dialogue, complex characters, and excellent acting make it a standout adaptation of Oscar Wilde's classic play.

Cons

Some scenes feel a bit rushed or static, and the cinematography can be inconsistent at times.

Notable Quotes

"I can resist everything except temptation."
"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all."
"To lose one parent may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness."

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