Based on Oscar Wilde’s classic play “Lady Windermere’s Fan,” A Good Woman (2004) is a captivating tale of love, deception, and high society. Set against the backdrop of the Italian Riviera in the 1930s, the film follows the lives of a group of wealthy individuals entangled in a web of lies and betrayal.
While the film is based on Wilde’s play, it takes a surprising turn from the original source material. The trailer might have suggested a serious drama about infidelity, but A Good Woman is actually a witty and charming comedy with a touch of melodrama.
Cast
The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including:
- Helen Hunt as Mrs. Erlynne, a cunning socialite with a penchant for deception.
- Scarlett Johansson as Meg Windermere, the young and naive wife of Robert Windermere.
- Mark Umbers as Robert Windermere, Meg’s devoted husband who falls under Mrs. Erlynne’s spell.
- Stephen Campbell Moore as Lord Darlington, a charming yet unscrupulous aristocrat.
- Tom Wilkinson as Tuppy, a wealthy and eccentric nobleman.
The film’s plot revolves around Mrs. Erlynne’s arrival in Italy and her subsequent seduction of Robert Windermere. As the truth unravels, Meg must confront her husband’s betrayal and make a difficult decision about her future.
A Good Woman is a delightful blend of comedy and drama. The witty dialogue, reminiscent of Wilde’s plays, adds a layer of humor to the story. However, the film also delves into serious themes of love, betrayal, and social class.
Despite its mixed tone, A Good Woman ultimately delivers a satisfying conclusion. The film’s final act is particularly strong, with a surprising twist and a poignant resolution.
A Good Woman is a charming and entertaining film that captures the spirit of Oscar Wilde’s work. While it may not be a strictly faithful adaptation of the play, it offers a unique and enjoyable cinematic experience.
