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VENUS Send This Review to a Friend
Extraordinary and challenging, “Venus,” directed by Roger Michell from a screenplay by Hanif Kureishi, provides a superb showcase for Peter O’Toole, who gives a strong performance as Maurice, an elderly actor and most difficult man whose life is suddenly charged with new energy when the teenage daughter of his roommate Ian’s niece comes to care for him. Jessie (Jodie Whittaker) is an edgy, rebellious sort of a generation far removed from the world of Maurice and his retired cronies, one of whom is played by Richard Griffiths, so good this year on stage and film in “The History Boys,” the other, Ian, being played by Leslie Phillips. The film was showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival and is now in commercial release.
Jessie gives Maurice a new appetite for life, as he becomes her mentor, taking her to the theater and other places, and, as one might expect, she arouses some sexual interest in him. Where can this lead? The film gives O’Toole the opportunity to register another of his memorable performances, but this one comes at a stage in his life when he looks shockingly elderly in comparison with the dashing O’Toole dating back to the 1962 “Lawrence of Arabia.”
The actor is in absolute command of his art, and he makes us feel for Maurice as he desperately wants to snare even a small measure of sexuality from this vibrant youth. On her part, she develops tender feelings for him. But she is also shrewd enough to want gain returns for doling out even a smidgen of what he would like. To the credit of the performers and director Michell, nothing seems sordid. There is humanity and understanding at the root of the odd relationship that grows.
The film looms as somewhat of a breakthrough performance for Whittaker, who is sassy and provocative in her part, yet manages to flash moments of warmth and understanding. Vanessa Redgrave adds interest as Maurice’s ex-wife Valerie, who has come to terms with their parting and the life he is leading. A Miramax Films release.
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