Everything about this movie is elegant. Probably Merchant/Ivory's best film next to "Howards End".

One of the very finest examples of the "less is more" school of filmmaking. The one-sentence synopsis would never do it justice, as it is far more captivating and emotional than one would ever guess. My personal favorite of the Merchant Ivory oeuvre. Don't ask any questions, just shut up and see it :-)

What an excrutiatingly brilliant performance by Anthony Hopkins... Love is long-suffering...

Manages somehow to enhance an already near-perfect novel; it says so much with so little. I know few performances as heartbreaking, subtle, and economical as Hopkins' Mr. Stevens. Thompson, countering him beautifully as the more extroverted Ms. Kenton, is every bit his match in a role expanded from the novel. Thomas Vaughan, Christopher Reeve and Hugh Grant are all excellent. Beautifully shot, perfectly paced; somehow maintains constant tension despite the seemingly banal subject matter.

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To me, this is the pinneacle of story telling in cinema and also of acting, especially the Godlike performance of Mr. Hopkins. A honest and brilliant, flawless story, top notch directing, beautiful cinematography. Makes you want to cry while it stops your tears just like Mr. Hopkins banishes himself of love.

The romantic plot line was so subtle you might even miss it if you don't read the blurb.

The parallels are a bit obvious, but they're handled thoughtfully and are quite engaging. The contrast between the old way of buttoned-down, mannered restraint and the new style of more direct expression is intriguing and provides for situations both comic and tragic. The whole cast is superior, although Hopkins and Thompson deserve special kudos. If there's one drawback, it's that the aura of restraint does make the film a bit of a challenge in the early stages.

Good performances, if a bit bland.

A reserved and loyal butler struggles to declare himself to the woman he loves. The character, played by Sir Anthony Hopkins, is fascinating, an acting 'tour de force'. Very good period drama.

I made the mistake of reading the astonishing and hilarious novel first.

Great film.

The book is better, but strangely enough I thought the movie ending was truer to the story.

One of the best films ever.

The Remains of the Day is a quiet film, thoughtful in every detail, subtle in every feeling. [Full Review]

WWII, from point of view of a housekeeper. Great idea and film.

One of the greatest films ever about unrequited love. Thompson and Hopkins both give maybe the best performances of their careers. Merchant-Ivory's absolute best.