What's the Deal with 'The Bronte Sisters' 1979 Movie? A Review from a Cinematic Perspective

Dimensions of the Review

When talking about cinema that delves into the lives of celebrated artists, The Bronte Sisters (1979) is a uniquely intriguing subject. Despite the intense academic and artistic background, the film often struggles to live up to the intricacies and impact of the subjects it portrays. This review delves into both the praises and criticisms of the movie, providing a balanced evaluation for those considering it.

Movie Overview and Context

The 1979 film The Bronte Sisters explores the lives of the celebrated English writers, Emily, Charlotte, and Anne Bront?. It's a cinematic reimagining of their biographies, offering a partial and sometimes rigid interpretation of their journey to literary stardom. The film, directed by Colin Blackwell, stars Isabelle Adjani as one of the Bronte sisters, making it a compelling piece from a star-studded cast perspective.

Production and Reception

Produced by a team that includes Roland Barthes, a renowned French literary theorist, the film aims to integrate theoretical insights into the narrative. However, despite the academic backing, the execution often fails to connect with audiences, at least from a casual viewer’s standpoint. Critics of the piece argue that Barthes’s involvement merely serves as a curious quirky addition without significantly enhancing the film's core quality.

Isabelle Adjani's Performance

One of the standout aspects of the film is the presence of Isabelle Adjani, a beloved actress who brings a magnetic presence to the roles she plays. Her inclusion, alone, is a significant draw for audiences, and her portrayal of a Bronte sister is no exception. However, Adjani's contribution cannot singlehandedly save the film from its various shortcomings, such as pacing and storytelling.

Content and Style

The film centers around the Bronte sisters' lives and their journey to literary success, but it does so in a manner that feels somewhat dull and listless. The narrative takes a heavy focus on their brother, Branwell, whose struggle and subsequent failure in life and academia are omnipresent. This centralization makes the sisters' stories feel secondary, almost overshadowed by their brother's narrative, which often detracts from the authenticity of their individual journeys.

Evocative Elements and Drawbacks

Though the film is rich with historical and theoretical elements, it often fails to deliver an engaging viewing experience. Critics have noted its slow pace and tedious narrative, making it hard to maintain interest. The film's attention to detail and academic rigor do not compensate for these pacing issues, which can leave viewers feeling disconnected.

On a positive note, the film is meticulous in its historical depiction and draws strength from Isabelle Adjani's luminous presence. The documentary-like approach and archive footage add a layer of authenticity, but they are not enough to elevate the overall experience.

Criticisms and Lesser-Than-Desired Outcome

Despite these strengths, the viewer (the reviewer) finds the film falling short of its ambitious goals. The portrayal of the sisters' lives and motivations lacks depth, and the narrative struggles to capture the essence of their individual characters. Moreover, the editing and overall structure of the film do not serve the story well, leading to a fragmented and underwhelming viewing experience.

Conclusion and Rating

In conclusion, The Bronte Sisters (1979) is a film that, while filled with historical and academic value, fails to deliver the cinematic magic required to captivate viewers. My rating of 3 out of 5 stars or 6 out of 10 reflects the film’s attempt at an academic exploration versus its failure to evoke emotional and intellectual resonance.

For those who are deeply invested in the lives and works of the Bronte sisters, the film might provide some insights, but for a casual viewer seeking entertainment, it may be a disappointment. It's a case where the film’s aspirations outshine its execution, particularly when contrasted with the reviewer's preference for films that balance historical truth with compelling storytelling.

Ishtar, another film often cited as a less-than-stellar experience, serves as a point of comparison, demonstrating the stark difference in quality and engagement.

Final Verdict

While The Bronte Sisters (1979) has its merits in terms of academic content and historical accuracy, it is far from a cinematic masterpiece. It falls short in delivering an engaging and dynamic portrayal of the Bronte sisters, resulting in a film that fails to live up to its potential. As for Roland Barthes’s involvement, while intriguing, it does not significantly enhance the film’s narrative or emotional impact.

Rating: 3/5