I probably talk about how much I love Atonement way too much. Its a shame when you read such an incredible novel and the film is not adapted to live up to the book's standards. But I would say that Joe Wright and Christopher Hampton did a phenominal job in loyally sticking to the plotline of the novel by Ian McEwan, making it moving, symbolic, captivating and inspiring. One of the film reviews was 'as close to perfect as a film could get' and I would have to agree with this.
I would have loved to work, adapting a screenplay such as Atonement as it moves through such a vast time period. The start is all about the interior elements, as it delves into the minds of the characters, such as Briony and their motives. Then I love the scenes at the hospital, capturing the true essense of life in London and the urgency of such a crucial job post evacuations.
Atonement starts in the 1930's and the travels through WW2, capturing life at war and home, through all the way to present day. It is like three or four books in one and I think Joe Wright honestly captures this element, sustaining it throughout the film.
The film, completely controlled through the narrative of Briony Tallis, depicts a tragic love affair, shattered by a young girls false accusation at the age of 13.
The start of the film completely captures Briony's controlling nature which dominates every camera movement and angle, the style of music and even the smaller details such as when all Briony's toys lined up facing towards her desk where she writes 'The Trials Of Arabella.'
I love the use of typewriting the credits with the music also. Composed by Dario Marianelli, it truly captures every essense of the film, through all sections. My favourite piece of music would have to be 'Denouncement' at the end, and then perhaps 'Elegy To Dunkirk', but I will do a post on these later on.
Opening of Atonement: >>>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqjEXD0T5Lo
(Look out for how the camera is completely controlled by the main character Briony, and the use of music which captures the impatient, dominating atmosphere. Further the location and costume.)
EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK:
The section in Dunkirk is oe of my all time favourite moments in film. They have chosen to use a continuous shot of Dunkirk which truly captures Robbie's arrival to what could be safety, where he is to be evacuated, yet unfortunetly never happens. This shot seems almost impossible as it requires such trust in the cast to stay in character, smoothness in camera work and also time, to keep re-shooting til it is perfect. However, it creates such a powerful effect as one is able to see the entire landscape of war on the fronts, and every emotion seems to pour out of the soldiers, as the viewer sees every aspect of life i Dunkirk in June 1940.
>>> around 4 minutes, but watch it all!
Making of...
Here is the making of Atonement, it is so interesting as it discusses the adaption of the novel, that scene of Dunkirk and it's difficulties, choice of costume, which I will be doing a blog section on later on and much more.
PART ONE AND TWO:
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