4 out of 5 stars
It's pretty daring to take Robert Pattinson, the most fanciable young actor of his generation, and cast him alongside actresses of the calibre of Kristin Scott Thomas, Uma Thurman and Christina Ricci. But it's a risk that pays off here as his performance takes this retelling of Guy de Maupassant's tale of sex and ambition to another level. As thrilling as it is sumptuous, the first feature from theatre directors Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod brings Paris at the turn of the 20th century to vibrant life, as handsome, brutish social climber Georges Duroy (Pattinson) plunders and blunders his way around the women of powerful men. The stunning production design frames Duroy's amorality as it unfolds like a rotten flower, and Pattinson has never looked more irresistible or dangerous. Thurman, especially, is a revelation - literally finding a new quality to her voice as the influential and wealthy Madeleine Forestier. A hauntingly beautiful triumph of content over style, this is Dangerous Liaisons meets Cruel Intentions with extra added credibility.
I went to see Bel Ami on Friday and was completely blown away. The sets and costumes are sumptuous as was the soaring, sweeping musical score. Thankfully there was none of the irritating music that was played at the start of each trailer!Kaz heads into the dark recesses after the cut!
All parts were played well by the supporting cast but the highest accolade has to go to Kristen Scott Thomas. Her depiction of a complete fan girl, overwhelming infatuated by Georges is a sight to behold. Her vulnerability and naivety is mind blowing. Every scene between her and Rob is amazing. Christina Ricci is also brilliant. Playing a fairly light hearted role for once, she plays the coquettish Clotilde with aplomb. You feel an amazing chemistry between her and Georges that could be interpreted as love, if only Georges were truly capable of it. Uma Thurman was also good as Madeleine Forestier. She captured her ambition well enough but her husky voice did grate on me a little, as did her flared nostrils!
Philip Glenister and Colm Meaney were outstanding. No other word for it.
My only criticism would be the lack of political intrigue in the story. Not much of this was explained and seemed a little rushed. As every scene contained Rob, I'm not complaining too loudly as he more than made up for the lack of storyline. To a non Rob supporter though, this might irk a little.
Now to come to Rob.....he was mesmerising. I really cannot believe this was made 2 years ago. He was sullen if he didn't get his own way....smug when he did. The smiles ....god the smiles.... they were Rob smiles when he was truly happy. He was lustful...he was ruthless.....he was enigmatic......he was arrogant.....
All of these emotions portrayed on a face so blindingly beautiful that sometimes no words needed to be spoken to understand how he felt.
There were also light-hearted moments in the film that made the audience laugh out loud. The comedic timing was excellent and even though Georges was a complete bastard, they made you fall in love with him too, despite his true nature.
The contrast between the two styles of Georges from the beginning of the story to the end is SO different. At the beginning you have him scruffy, unshaven with hair flopping on his forehead to a suave, sophisticated young buck in a tuxedo, high waisted trousers and cream bow tie with hair neatly swept back of his face. I must admit, when he was dressed up, Rob made me catch my breath, especially in the close-up shots. Either looking straight ahead with with an arrogant look or that sexy half smile he has perfected.
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- Buy (UK)
- Buy(UK)
Twilight (2008)- Trailer - Buy(US)
- Buy(UK)
Little Ashes (2008) -Trailer - Buy(US) - Buy (UK) 
- Buy(UK)
The Haunted Airman (TV)(2006) - Trailer - Buy(US)
- Buy(UK)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) - Trailer - Buy(US) - Buy(UK)
- Buy(UK) 
Vanity Fair (2004)(uncredited) - watch 
