Engaging if uneven.
Comment
02/09/06
Restoration (1995)
68 %
Reviews Counted: 31 Fresh: 21 Rotten:10 Average Rating: 6.3/10
Runtime: 1 hr 57 mins
Synopsis: This lavishly-mounted costume drama focuses on one of England's most fascinating periods: the restoration of the monarchy after 11 years of Puritan rule, which led to an explosion of culture and learning. A young, womanizing doctor named Robert Merivel earns the admiration of Charles II... [More]
Genre: Dramas
Starring: Robert Downey, Sam Neill, David Thewlis, Polly Walker, Meg Ryan
Director: Michael Hoffman
Reviews
Top Critic
An interesting evocation of a decadent era marked by opulence, excess and abject poverty. But works equally well as a study of personal redemption amidst the turmoil.
09/27/05
Since the robust 17th-century picaresque tale is not enjoying any current vogue, the success of "Restoration" can be considered a very pleasant surprise.
05/20/03
Top Critic
Despite its flaws, Restoration proves that Hollywood can at times treat history in satisfying manner.
05/16/03
Robert Downey, Jr. can do no wrong by me, and his expressiveness and irreverence are what make this film work. Seen through his eyes, the changing currents of the times are navigable only with large doses of dark humor and compassion.
05/14/03
Phantasmagorical film about a late bloomer who takes a long time to find and follow a path with heart.
08/22/02
The film is overcome by the rumbling workings of a creaky plot as the story grows more serious.
08/15/02
Top Critic
The movie takes on a somber, fitful atmosphere of straining epic proportions. But it strays into an episodic bog that leaves it gasping for dramatic life.
06/18/02
Hoffman proves himself a master of complex scenery, crowd control and graceful direction. He succeeds in making a conspicuously lush and rich movie out of what was reportedly a less than kingly budget.
01/01/00
One of the most exquisitely rendered period pieces I've ever seen, replete with fully-laden palaces and disgustingly realistic plague victims.
01/01/00
IGN RSS Feeds