Perhaps because of the name of Jane Campion, I expected [The Portrait of a Lady] would be another feminine text. It still was a feminine text but appears reversely. The film itself was not concise enough; the opening scene, the B&W scenes in the midd... (read more) Perhaps because of the name of Jane Campion, I expected [The Portrait of a Lady] would be another feminine text. It still was a feminine text but appears reversely. The film itself was not concise enough; the opening scene, the B&W scenes in the middle, as well as certain editing looked rather awkward. Good photography although somehow pointless. Isabel Archer, the core character, was neither remarkable nor adorable enough and seems to be rather invulnerable, pretentious, pride, stupid & insensitive. I couldn't be more careless about what will come upon her. Nicole Kidman's immaturity then of course further weakens the character's dimension. John Malkovich (as always, though very Valmont @ [Dangerous Liaisons]) & Barbara Hershey easily stood out; Martin Donovan was not bad either; supporting with small potato then Viggo Mortensen & Christian Bale.

In many ways this is a good film, john Malkovich and Barbara Hershey prove their talent as actors and it´s beautifully directed. You may find the plot a little disturbing but although this film is very well done the story does lack some elements and... (read more) In many ways this is a good film, john Malkovich and Barbara Hershey prove their talent as actors and it´s beautifully directed. You may find the plot a little disturbing but although this film is very well done the story does lack some elements and doesn´t seem quite complete. The movie is an adaptation of a book I haven´t read, maybe something got lost in the script. Worth watching on TV or something, don´t spend your money on it though.

Interesting film, if only to view Nicole Kidman's face in a pre-Botox state. Her portrayal did fit the role though was a little stilted. John Malkovich's portrayal of a seductive sadist echoed of his earlier role in Dangerous Liaisons. Slow & though ... (read more) Interesting film, if only to view Nicole Kidman's face in a pre-Botox state. Her portrayal did fit the role though was a little stilted. John Malkovich's portrayal of a seductive sadist echoed of his earlier role in Dangerous Liaisons. Slow & though not for everyone, it was also good to see some other actors in an earlier role.

The movie is pretty good. All the male actors are just wonderful and Nicole Kidman looks really authentic with "No-make up" Make up

I love this film, here all of the actors are just superb.
The photography and the scenery is just so perfect.
I think that this is the first film I took Nichole Kidman
seriously!!!!

Everything in this picture works: The music, the cinematography (all moody, rainstorm blues), the direction, the characters. Except for one very important thing: Isabel Archer herself. Or, rather, Nicole Kidman as Isabel Archer. She is frozen and woo... (read more) Everything in this picture works: The music, the cinematography (all moody, rainstorm blues), the direction, the characters. Except for one very important thing: Isabel Archer herself. Or, rather, Nicole Kidman as Isabel Archer. She is frozen and wooden from scene 1, so I can't buy her as having been changed in any way. A pity, because she looks great.

This should have been an exceptional movie but for the tedious monotone of Malkovich & his hateful character. Disappointing.