I realize my tastes are specialized when it comes to films. If you like a. literature and especially poetry; b. period flicks; c. moody British/Australian actors; d. thoughtful scriptwriting and subtle direction...you will not be disappointed in this film. It is a treat for the eye, the ear, the heart and the mind.

Made the way films should be made with a distinctive voice and rhythm. A work of art.

I really loved this movie abt the Romantic poet John Keats. Director Jane Campion has focused not on the writing of poetry but on the life of the doomed young poet & most especially his one love affair, w/ the charming, decisive Fanny Brawne - a teenager throughout their courtship & engagement.. Given the wildly romantic nature of the material, the movie cd. have been overwrought, but it's not. It's downright quiet, w/ Campion taking time to allow the characters to tell their own story. The result is that when strong emotions *are* expressed, they're all the more powerful. The acting's superb, w/ especial praise due to Abbie Cornish (Brawne), Ben Whishaw (Keats), Paul Schneider (Keats's friend Thomas Brown), Kerry Fox (Mrs. Brawne), plus tiny newcomer Edie Martin, who pretty much steals every scene she's in. Cinematography + design are gorgeous. ... Some may feel this is "for women" but my husband & other men in audience liked it v. much. Obvs. not an action movie. Audience - grownups.

This is gorgeous. Jane Campion has made a movie like a Keats poem: engaging all the senses; perfectly capturing a series of exquisite moments; a place where poetry is spoken as naturally as "leaves to a tree." Every performance is both understated and electric, Abbie Cornish and Ben Whishaw inhabit their roles effortlessly. Adults, teens in love with poetry, college folk both student and professor, lovers of luscious cinematography.

One thing I will say is that if you enjoy period pieces this film will be a delight. If not, then maybe not so much. The cinematography on this film was absolutely breathtaking. I have nothing negative to say about the acting; all were genuine and endearing performances. A wonderful screenplay overall, and an incredibly moving story that managed to stay fairly true to the life of John Keats. The fact that several of Keats' most beautiful poems were included didn't hurt either. Overall, I have to say, this one has made my top ten of all time.