Gorgeous cinematography (especially in detail shots) and Judy Davis' naturalistic acting are the highlights of this period piece.

It's always fun to watch Judy Davis lead with her chin, and sharp, distinctive onscreen personality was basically in place from the beginning. Armstrong balances the storytelling nicely, evoking the period without letting the film become needlessly smothered by its trappings. It emphasizes the story's universal qualities rather than its sterling credentials as a piece of the revered, solemn past.

Judy Davis is terrific --she gives the right blend of coltish independence and narcissism that keeps her character from being one of those modern types whose smarter than the all the yahoos, which you see so often in historical films. Gillian Anderson's direction is assured and her work with DP Donald McAlpine results in an image of a wilderness streaked with fissures of encroaching modernity.

A surprisingly magnetic period piece, which manages to outclass many of its peers through its gorgeous costume/makeup, some brilliant naturally-lit outdoor shots and the caliber of its actors. I'm a dude and I enjoyed this entirely too much. It manages to pack a bigger punch than its Jane Austen breatheren, too, by adding ambiguity and resisting the clean narrative finish.

One of those movies that has made absolutely no impression on me. I don't think I can recall a single shot

Armstrong's eye for detail and Davis's performance dominate this fine import.