Atonement

You know you're watching a film of merit when it unfolds like a good book and you get lost in the story. "Atonement" is adapted from the book of the same name by Ian McEwan. I didn't read the book but I have read others by Mr. McEwan and I can only imagine that the screenplay for "Atonement" faithfully follows the book. Mr. McEwan is a gifted author who writes powerful novels. This is a powerful film.

It is a sweeping story of depth, filled with romance, and devastating drama. There is great chemistry between it's lead actors, Keira knightley and James McAvoy. Saoirse Ronan is a wonder as Ms. Knightley's 13 year old sister who sets the story in motion with one horrible lie.

This is a period film set in England and war torn France in the late 1930's. The cinematography, sets and costumes are all wonderful. There is an amazing single tracking shot on the French beach that is remarkable in it's beauty and horror at the same time.

"Atonement" has already been nominated for many Golden Globe Awards and will surely garner many Oscar nominations as well. It deserves all of them. Once it ends, it will haunt you for days. It will have that kind of impact.