Hilary and Jackie (1998)

HILARY AND JACKIE is a well-shot, well-acted bio pic about the du 
Pre sisters (Rachel Griffiths and Emily Watson) and how their soul-
mate-worthy relationship was impacted by one becoming a famous cel-
list and the other opting for the life of a housewife.  What makes 
this movie unique-- that is, beyond being one of the few movies 
from last year that was actually *good*-- is a nifty narrative gim-
mick that splits the POV between the pair.  (The early events of 
their adult lives are shown from the perspective of one sister; the 
later events from the other's.)  A couple of the more outrageous 
plot points never really make sense-- such as some strange sexual 
business-- but they're promptly forgotten in the wake of weightier 
issues.  Tons of droning cello music, too, if you like that sort of 
thing...  With David Morrissey, James Frain, and Charles Dance.  
Directed by Anand Tucker.  Written by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, based 
on the book "A Genius in the Family," by Hilary and her brother
Piers.  (Rated "R"/121 min.)

Grade: A-  

Copyright 1999 Michael J. Legeros
Movie Hell is a trademark of Michael J. Legeros

Originally posted to triangle.movies as MOVIE HELL: January 17, 1999