Early Review: The Duchess

NYIndieSeen attended tonight's preview screening of The Duchess starring Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes. The film is based on the true events of Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire. The story takes place in 18th century England where appearances mean everything. Georgiana finds herself being married hastily to the Duke of Devonshire--a man she barely knows. Unfortunately his only intentions for her is to bear his child. He has no love or compassion for his new wife. Feeling lonely, Georgiana befriends Bess Foster--who catches the Duke's eye. Behind closed doors lies buried secrets and Georgiana one night hears passionate noises behind one of them. Her best friend Bess and her husband! Oh the scandal!

However the scandalous story gets even better when Bess moves in as the Duke's mistress and a 3rd party marriage has now begun.

The performances are pretty good. Keira Knightley---who's weight sometimes scare me---gave a compelling performance. Ralph Fiennes, as always, had a stunning role. The movie is definitely an interesting brand of English tea from scandal, sex, lies, debauchery, and even a little girl on girl action. Overall its a must see and will probably get some Oscar nominations for best hair and makeup or something. Those period piece movies usually do. The Duchess will hit theaters nationwide Oct 3rdth.

Check out the movie trailer here if you haven't seen it already: