Films may have any number of different strengths. For some it's the acting, for others the story, and in some cases it's effects, or stunts, or comedy. I'm of the mind that the chief selling point of this title is its cinematography - Hannes Staudinger's, sure, but the underwater work of Ron and Valerie Taylor is exquisite. Between the gorgeous filming locations, the cinematographers' contributions, and Michael Powell's keen eye as director, 'Age of consent' is a rather beautiful picture. The production design and art direction, too, are terrific; the visual presentation is rich and flavorful all around. True, I think the cast give fine performances (Neva Carr Glyn rather steals the show as overbearing, screeching Ma Ryan), and we're treated to light humor peppered among swell character moments throughout this comedy-drama. More sparing are discrete threads of plot in a feature where not a lot actually, specifically happens for most of these 106 minutes. Fifty years on, this may yet be most notable of all as an early role of the great Helen Mirren, only 24 years old when this was released.
None of this is to downplay any of the work that went into this movie, for it's well made all around. This is lightly amusing, lightly engaging, and all around a pleasant viewing experience no matter what glimmers of more severe drama may appear around the edges. That it saves pretty much all its concrete plot for the last two-fifths of the length is perhaps another matter; 'Age of consent' feels imbalanced, with all its (light) weight in the back end. The result is a title that mostly just comes and goes rather fleetingly, without any especial spark or vitality to help it stick. It's enjoyable, and worth checking out, and surely most suggested for fans of those involved. As there's so little distinct substance to particularly grab onto, however, it's also hard to give any major recommendation. Save it for a quiet day, perhaps, and just relax and see where the movie takes you.
None of this is to downplay any of the work that went into this movie, for it's well made all around. This is lightly amusing, lightly engaging, and all around a pleasant viewing experience no matter what glimmers of more severe drama may appear around the edges. That it saves pretty much all its concrete plot for the last two-fifths of the length is perhaps another matter; 'Age of consent' feels imbalanced, with all its (light) weight in the back end. The result is a title that mostly just comes and goes rather fleetingly, without any especial spark or vitality to help it stick. It's enjoyable, and worth checking out, and surely most suggested for fans of those involved. As there's so little distinct substance to particularly grab onto, however, it's also hard to give any major recommendation. Save it for a quiet day, perhaps, and just relax and see where the movie takes you.