The Remains of the Day (1993) Review in 2025
A period drama that explores the life of a butler, Stevens, who reflects on his decades-long service to a British aristocratic family, uncovering a complex web of secrets and emotions.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and slow pace, but it's a great choice for older teenagers and adults.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is definitely worth watching, especially for fans of period dramas and romance. It's a slow-burning, introspective film that requires patience and attention, but the rewards are well worth it.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film delves into Stevens' unrequited love for Miss Kenton, the housekeeper, and his struggles with his own emotions, ultimately revealing a poignant and introspective character study.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-structured, with a clear narrative arc that explores Stevens' life and emotions. The pacing is deliberate and measured, which suits the period drama genre.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Anthony Hopkins delivering a career-defining performance as Stevens. Emma Thompson is also excellent, bringing a depth and nuance to her character that is simply captivating.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Stevens being a particularly nuanced and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Emma Thompson and Hugh Grant.
direction9.00/10
James Ivory's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for period detail and a deep understanding of the characters' motivations. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with beautiful shots of the English countryside.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a muted color palette that perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the film. The camera work is also impressive, with a range of techniques used to convey the characters' emotions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Remains of the Day is a beautifully crafted film with excellent performances, stunning cinematography, and a nuanced, introspective story. It's a must-see for fans of period dramas and romance.
Cons
The pacing can be slow, and some viewers may find the film's introspective nature challenging to engage with. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
" 'I have never loved anyone but you, Miss Kenton.'"
" 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.'"
