Opened: March 13, 1992

Directed by: James Ivory

Starring: Emma Thompson, Helena Bonham Carter, Anthony Hopkins, Vanessa Redgrave, Joseph Bennett, Prunella Scales, Adrian Ross Magenty, Jo Kendall, James Wilby, Jemma Redgrave, Samuel West, Susie Lindeman, Nicola Duffett, Mark Payton & Barbara Hicks

Gorgeously filmed with great production value, Howards End is a perfect period piece that rounds out James Ivory’s trio of E. M. Forster adaptations.

After a brief engagement between Helen Schlegel (Helena Bonham Carter) and Paul Wilcox (Joseph Bennett), Ruth Wilcox (Vanessa Redgrave) and Margaret Schlegel (Emma Thompson) become close. Upon Ruth’s death, she leaves Margaret her home of Howards End, which her husband Henry (Anthony Hopkins) disapproves of.

Thompson is radiant in the lead and keeps Margaret in high spirits but doesn’t shy away from emotions when put in hard situations with Helen or Henry. Bonham Carter is intense but continues to prove her staying power earlier in her career.

The art direction and costumes are beautiful with a stirring score that hits when most important, which all elevate the already strong script.

Final say: Period at its finest. ★★★★★