
Movie spotlight
Age of Innocence
A British schoolteacher finds trouble in a conservative Canadian town.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the opulent and rigidly stratified society of 1870s New York, Newland Archer, a young lawyer from a prominent family, is engaged to the beautiful and innocent May Welland. His world is turned upside down by the arrival of May's cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska, a free-spirited woman who has separated from her European husband. Newland finds himself increasingly drawn to Ellen's unconventional nature and intelligence, leading to a passionate but doomed affair that challenges the strict social conventions of their time.
Critical Reception
This 1977 television adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel was generally well-received for its faithful portrayal of the source material and strong performances. Critics praised its visual richness and its ability to capture the nuances of the novel's social commentary. While perhaps overshadowed by later film adaptations, it is considered a solid and respectful rendering of a classic American novel.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its faithfulness to Edith Wharton's novel.
Noted for strong performances, particularly by the lead actors.
Appreciated for its visual representation of Gilded Age New York.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 1977 television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This television film adaptation was broadcast as part of the BBC's 'Play of the Month' series, which often featured high-quality adaptations of literary works.
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