Quartile rating: 7.5/10 · 1 rating
When Lucy Honeychurch and chaperon Charlotte Bartlett find themselves in Florence with rooms without views, fellow guests Mr Emerson and son George step in to remedy the situation. Meeting the Emersons could change Lucy's life forever but, once back in England, how will her experiences in Tuscany affect her marriage plans?
Merchant Ivory's adaptation of Forster's novel is elevated primarily by exceptional ensemble acting — Helena Bonham Carter, Maggie Smith, and Denholm Elliott are all outstanding — and sumptuous Florentine and English countryside cinematography that remains visually memorable. The plot is a faithful, well-paced adaptation but remains conventional Edwardian romance with few surprises. Novelty is moderate: the Merchant Ivory style is distinctive and polished but by this point recognisable enough not to feel singular. The ending is satisfying and true to the source material but arrives without great dramatic force.