Opened: April 11, 1986

Directed by: James Ivory

Starring: Helena Bonham Carter, Julian Sands, Maggie Smith, Denholm Elliott, Daniel Day-Lewis, Simon Callow, Rosemary Leach, Rupert Graves, Patrick Godfrey, Judi Dench, Fabia Drake, Joan Henley, Amanda Walker, Maria Bitneva, Mia Fothergill & Peter Cellier

In her feature film debut, Helena Bonham Carter captures the audience with her sweet looks and demeanor, but her acting leaves a bit to be desired.

While traveling in Florence with her chaperone Charlotte Bartlett (Maggie Smith), Lucy Honeychurch (Bonham Carter) meets the handsome George Emerson (Julian Sands). When George acts indecently, Lucy returns home and gets engaged to the detestable Cecil Vyse (Daniel Day-Lewis).

Parts of the film feel a bit dislodged with Bonham Carter’s lack of chemistry with her costars, though it’s hard to judge her in an early work. Title cards also interrupt the flow of the narrative to move it along rather than connect scenes.

However, the cinematography and costumes are glorious. Smith and Day-Lewis have standout moments that add comedy to the film.

Final say: A good view, but a better one could be found. ★★★☆☆