Madame Bovary is an eye-catching film which bypasses the novel’s dedication to realism instead revelling in contradictory but no less crucial romanticism. Andrij Parekj’s entrancing cinematography exudes elegance and realises Barthes’ emphasis on Emma’s claustrophobia through a twofold frame.

Although Wasikowska is strong as the lead, it is the men in her life who steal the show. Charles Bovary is afforded apt authenticity and charm by Henry Lloyd-Hughes whilst Rhys Ifans is outstanding, performing noxious Monsieur Lheureux with ease and aplomb.

Potency is diluted by instances of sentimentality that ring hollow, a deficiency of dynamism and an inappropriately palliative conclusion.

This fresh adaptation boasts beautiful cinematography to bolster the strangling atmosphere. Despite palpable confidence and good performances, the result feels underwhelming and flat.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Mia Wasikowska, Ezra Miller, Paul Giamatti, Rhys Ifans, Henry Lloyd-Hughes

DIRECTOR: Sophie Barthes

WRITERS: Sophie Barthes, Felipe Marino

SYNOPSIS: Emma Bovary (Wasikowska) embarks on married life with enthusiasm but rapacious loneliness soon tempts her beyond social confines and ultimately to despair. 

TRAILER: Coming Soon…