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THE LAST SEPTEMBER Send This Review to a Friend
With the premium cast that adds luster to "The Last September," the sad drama should be much more impressive than it is. Nevertheless, there is a certain historical and dramatic tone that warrants taking the film seriously, and it is never dull to watch even though it doesn't catch fire emotionally despite events that are romantic and tragic.
Directed in a self-consciously arty style by Deborah Warner from John Banville's screenplay based on Elizabeth Bowen's novel, "The Last September" is set in Ireland's County Cork in 1920, a time when Irish rebels were fighting a guerilla battle against British soldiers and the way of life for Anglo-Irish aristocrats who lived handsomely in the area was imperiled and doomed. The centerpiece is the country estate of the Naylors--Sir Richard, played by the imposing actor Michael Gambon and Lady Myra, impeccably played by Maggie Smith.
The love story is not a particularly original one. Sir Richard's niece, Lois, who is 19, is the object of the affections of Gerald (David Tennant), a captain in the British army, but her interest is stimulated by her former childhood friend Peter, who is now the hunted rebel in hiding in a water mill on Sir Richard's estate. Her budding sexuality excites him, and his rugged masculinity and aura of danger excites her. The stage is set for trouble.
Keeley Hawes brings to the role of Lois a naivete stirred by a passion for a world beyond the safe confines of her programmed life, and Gary Lydon imbues Peter with intensity and irresponsibility. Another key figure in the growing drama is Marda, a sophisticated woman played by the distinguished actress Fiona Shaw, who is visiting the Naylors with an agenda of her own and whose worldliness impresses young Lois. Others important in the cast include Jane Birkin, Lambert Wilson and Richard Roxburgh.
The film develops a sense of place and there are flashes of wit in some of the conversations, but despite interesting historical perspective, "The Last September" doesn't rise to the level of power and importance for which it strives. It would make a passable television outing, but lacks the force to make an excursion to theaters particularly urgent. A Trimark Pictures release.
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