Film Review: The Moonstone (1996)
The Moonstone is a BBC adaptation of Wilkie Collins’ famous detective novel from 1868. Many consider Collins’ novel to be the very first detective novel ever written. So, if you’re a fan of the whodunit genre, you might want to check out the novel too. Personally, I watched the movie first!
This BBC version is a period drama that originally aired as a two-part miniseries and stars well-known actors Greg Wise and Keeley Hawes. They’re a big draw for this adaptation, but the supporting cast is just as impressive and capable. For instance, Peter Vaughan delivers a standout performance as the butler Betteredge, adding much depth to his character. Lesley Sharp, known for her role in ITV’s paranormal mystery series Afterlife, plays a maid with psychic abilities.
The story centers around Rachel Verinder (played by Hawes), who inherits a large diamond, known as the moonstone, from her estranged uncle on her birthday. Franklin Blake (played by Wise), the executor of the uncle’s estate, arrives to deliver the diamond. Franklin, who is Rachel’s cousin, has just returned to the British Isles after spending many years abroad, and finds himself immediately attracted to the now grown-up Rachel.
The moonstone itself is invaluable and steeped in mystery, having been stolen from a shrine in India many years ago. It’s rumored to be cursed, and its original guardians are intent on reclaiming it. Rachel wears the diamond to her birthday dinner, but by morning, it has vanished from her room.
The disappearance of the moonstone leads to chaos in the household as everyone becomes a suspect. Rachel isolates herself, refusing to assist in the investigation or speak with Franklin, who then calls in Sergeant Cuff (played by Antony Sher) to help. Franklin is convinced that the theft was an inside job.
Without revealing too much, the film has plenty of suspects and surprising twists. Significant developments occur as the anniversary of the moonstone’s disappearance approaches.
The plot is sensational and melodramatic, especially when the identity of the thief is finally revealed. Modern mystery fans might find some of the twists a bit farfetched, and the romance between Rachel and Franklin feels somewhat forced due to their limited screen time together.
Despite the plot’s occasional absurdity, the film is entertaining, thanks to its great cast and beautiful cinematography. It’s the kind of movie where you can simply enjoy the dramatic flair and have a laugh along the way.
Content Note
There isn’t much objectionable content—no strong language, nudity, or gore. There is one melodramatic scene where a character dies in a mud pit, slowly sinking with arms raised, which is a bit over-the-top.
Have you read the novel or seen the movie? Share your thoughts in the comments.
