The Invisible Woman: A Review
At the peak of his literary fame, Charles Dickens meets a young actress named Nelly Ternan and falls deeply in love. Their connection, initially delicate, soon makes Nelly the center of Charles’ world. Despite her youthful innocence and initial hesitation, Nelly is eventually drawn to Charles. Their relationship, filled with genuine devotion, evolves into a secret affair. Nelly becomes the hidden muse and inspiration behind his works. Directed by and starring Ralph Fiennes, the film “The Invisible Woman” also features Felicity Jones, Kristen Scott Thomas, Tom Hollander, and John Kavanagh.
Review of The Invisible Woman
“The Invisible Woman” turns out to be a surprisingly tender film. Rather than grand gestures, it’s a deeply emotional drama about the evolving love between Charles and Nelly. The story focuses on the repercussions of their affair, affecting their families and themselves with undertones of remorse and guilt. Nelly’s hesitance to fully embrace Charles’ affection is captivating, making it even more poignant when she finally surrenders to her emotions.
Some might find the film’s slow pace frustrating, but the deliberate pacing is purposeful. Every scene, line, gesture, and look is meticulously placed, with nothing unnecessary. The dialogue often trails off into silence, adding to the story’s delicate nature. The supporting cast plays crucial roles in the narrative, from the beginning of Charles and Nelly’s affair to its conclusion.
Felicity Jones as Nelly
Felicity Jones portrays Nelly in two distinct phases. Initially, as a naïve young woman, she carefully navigates her first love with Charles. Her innocence is evident in her actions and expressions. Despite her feelings for Charles, she maintains a level head, not simply succumbing to his charms.
Later, Jones depicts an older Nelly, burdened by guilt and remorse years after her affair with Charles. Now a wife, mother, and teacher, she finds her long-buried emotions resurfacing. She has repackaged her past with Charles into a more innocent narrative, but she continues to struggle with the impact of her history on her present life.
Ralph Fiennes as Charles Dickens
Ralph Fiennes captures Charles Dickens’ blend of arrogance and sensitivity perfectly. Despite his vanity, Charles shows a tender side as he falls for Nelly, though he expects her to succumb to his advances. His insensitivity towards his own family, especially his wife, is clearly depicted during his pursuit of Nelly.
Joanna Scanlon shines as Catherine Dickens, contrasting Charles’ insensitivity with her quiet, stoic demeanor. Her subtle gestures and tone reveal her pain, yet she remains silent about her husband’s betrayal, protecting his secret despite her own suffering.
Final Thoughts
The film piqued my curiosity about the true story of Charles and Nelly’s relationship. Their affair, which lasted 13 years, was meticulously kept a secret and only came to light after the death of Dickens’ last living child. The movie captures their story with a dream-like quality, much like a tale told by a grandparent about a bygone era, adding to its quiet and tender portrayal of love and liberation from the past.
Conclusion
“The Invisible Woman” is available for STARZ subscribers or for rental on various streaming services. It’s a compelling watch for those interested in historical dramas and the intricacies of forbidden love. The film is rated R for some sexual content and brief nudity.
