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The Bostonians (1984)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:5
Fresh:3
Rotten:2
Average Rating:6.3/10
Runtime: 2 hrs 2 mins
Genre: Dramas
Synopsis: Director James Ivory brings Henry James's classic novel THE BOSTONIANS to the screen in this evocative, historical adaptation filled with exciting, exacting performances. The story centers on the... Director James Ivory brings Henry James's classic novel THE BOSTONIANS to the screen in this evocative, historical adaptation filled with exciting, exacting performances. The story centers on the fight between an ardent feminist and a southern gentleman for a charismatic faith healer's daughter. Basil Ransom (Christopher Reeve), a conservative lawyer, woos the youthful, charming, and articulate Verena Tarrant (Madeleine Potter in her first film role), but he objects to her involvement in the suffragist movement and to Olive Chancellor (Vanessa Redgrave), Verena's feminist mentor. The relationship between Redgrave, Reeve, and Potter is mesmerizing to watch, and Reeve, better known for his role in SUPERMAN, is handsomely dynamic as the lover Verena cannot deny. Jessica Tandy, Linda Hunt, and Nancy Marchand costar in this strong ensemble film shot in stunning New England locations. THE BOSTONIANS was Merchant Ivory Productions' second adaptation of a Henry James novel, following THE EUROPEANS. [More]
Starring: Christopher Reeve, Vanessa Redgrave, Linda Hunt, Jessica Tandy
Starring: Christopher Reeve, Vanessa Redgrave, Linda Hunt, Jessica Tandy
Director: James Ivory
Director: James Ivory
Reviews for The Bostonians
Despite handsome production values, this Merchant Ivory screen adaptation of Henry James' novel is a misfire, largely due to the miscasting of thr two leads, Christopher Reeve and Madeleine Potter, though Vanessa Redgrave is decent.
A literary work with exquisite production values and a vivid portrait of class differences in Boston social life at the turn of the century.
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