Howards End (1992)

Brilliant adaptation of E.M. Forster’s so-so classic novel. Directed by James Ivory, it seems more nuanced and subtle than the book. The actors are skilled enough to bring out a sense of humanity that is rarely evident in Forster’s rather cold prose. 

The plot is thus summarised by Google: “Helen Schlegel falls for Paul Wilcox, but is rebuffed. Her sister Margaret becomes friends with his mother, who promises her the family house, Howards End. Unfortunately, after her death, the will disappears and it appears the inheritance will disappear. Until the widower, Henry Wilcox, becomes attracted to Margaret.”

It’s a tale about class and prejudice. 

Emma Thompson, Helena Bonham-Carter and Anthony Hopkins are superb as the primary characters, with Thompson in particular delivering an astounding performance. She also acted alongside Hopkins in Remains of the Day (1993), and the two seem made to work together. There are also roles for Vanessa Redgrave, Jemma Redgrave and Prunella Scales.

There are some slightly odd cuts and edits, but these actually work to punctuate the story and provide narrative focus.