I wish I could say that this film left me with greater insight into the character of Charles Dickens, but it did not. I found its portrayal of him very unfocused. I understand that human beings are complex and not easily labeled, and I was prepared to see a multi- dimensional character, but that isn't really what I saw. It felt as if the character of Mr Dickens was somehow cobbled together without the script really knowing where it wanted to take him.
The film is, ostensibly, more about Nelly than it is about Dickens, but it didn't always feel that way.
The atmosphere and sets were well done. The bleakness of Victorian life for those without money or security was well conveyed. This setting is important to the story because it helps to explain why Nelly and her mother both felt that being Dickens' mistress was a good career and life choice for Nelly.
At times I wished the film would pick up the pace. There was a little bit too much gazing blankly out of windows by Nelly in particular. At times it felt that the story was moving much too slowly.
All in all, the movie was oddly paced, bland, and somewhat rambling.
The film is, ostensibly, more about Nelly than it is about Dickens, but it didn't always feel that way.
The atmosphere and sets were well done. The bleakness of Victorian life for those without money or security was well conveyed. This setting is important to the story because it helps to explain why Nelly and her mother both felt that being Dickens' mistress was a good career and life choice for Nelly.
At times I wished the film would pick up the pace. There was a little bit too much gazing blankly out of windows by Nelly in particular. At times it felt that the story was moving much too slowly.
All in all, the movie was oddly paced, bland, and somewhat rambling.