Review of Parade's End

Benedict Cumberbatch and Rebecca Hall are probably the two most outstanding thespians of their generation so it was probably fated that they should appear together in a filmed version of a classic novel, even if Ford is a less well known author. The subject matter is a love triangle brought to life by the opposing personalities of the two leads and the deceit that lies at the heart of their relationship. The introduction of a third party in the form of a young suffragette, completes the picture. Hall's slow realization that the man she married is an almost perfect husband despite her many faults and her inability to turn things around almost makes the viewer sympathetic and the caltalysing effect of World War I on all the leading characters is mesmerising. Whilst the story isn't as gripping as I hoped, the characterisation and interaction between the leads is perfect. If they wer'nt man and woman, I would have difficulty deciding who was the better of the two. So all in all, an interesting series beautifully crafted with superb locations, breathtaking cinematography and sure handed direction, but not quite a classic for me, even if it is an acting masterclass.