Review of Madame Bovary

Charles Bovary (Hugh Bonneville), in the French countryside, starts school late, is teased, but manages to become a doctor of the lowest rank. His domineering mother (Eileen Atkins) even arranges a marriage for him to a wealthy widow, who dies a couple of years later. Meanwhile, Emma (Frances O'Connor) grows up nearby but spends years in a convent school. Her mind is filled with books, poetry, and romantic notions and desires. One day, her father breaks his leg and Dr. Bovary, newly widowed, comes to set it. Charles is very taken with the beautiful young lady and Emma, naively, believes that Charles' desire for her indicates romantic days ahead. They marry. All too soon, Emma realizes her husband's interests are simple and he doesn't understand her need for loftier ideas. Not long after, Emma meets a town clerk, Leon (Hugh Dancy), very handsome, who also loves discussing music, poetry and ideas. Although not requited at this time, the two grow to love each other. But, Emma is pregnant and refuses to leave her husband, who, in truth, is very kind and attentive. Leon moves to Paris. Soon, Emma gives birth to a daughter and remains in failing health, due to her grief over her existence. Charles moves the family in an attempt to revive her spirits and Em meets another man, Rodolphe (Greg Wise) who pursues her relentlessly. With mounting debts and a lover on the side, how will Emma's marriage survive? How will she live on when Rodolphe cruelly leaves her? This wonderful adaption of Flaubert's classic should be better known. O'Connor is terrific as the dreamy-eyed Emma while Bonneville excels as the dimwitted but kindly Charles. Dancy, Wise and Atkins are likewise very fine. The sets, costumes, and movie making are beyond measure, resulting in a beautiful movie with hidden riches. Don't miss this rendition of one of the most complex, tragic, but glorious stories of all time.