[setanta]

The Duchess.

I was pleasantly surprised with this one, in particular the performance of Kiera Knightley, who's limited acting range actually suits the formal, staid enviroment of a period drama, with looks and stiff upper lips being more important than variables and nuances in character. Having said that, she does have a few scenes in the film that make me actually think that there's a budding actress underneath it all, and she's ably supported by a stellar cast, with Ralph Fiennes being his usual magnificent self.

Nice music, beautifully ornate costumes and set designs make this a feast for the eyes and ears, and the drama is compelling enough as it progresses. So yeah, not too shabby at all really.