"Quills" admirably aims to take a stand against censorship through dramatizing the Marquis de Sade's last days. Trouble is what worked for the stage does not interpret well on-screen. The dialogue is excellent and witty, however the story relies on tired plot devices (e.g. the priest, Joaquin Phoenix, and the laundress, Kate Winslet, fall in love--Gasp! Shocking!) which take away from the Marquis. A lot of time was spent on characterization and dialogue without fully realizing how the plot would flesh out and serve the film's purpose. Ultimately, "Quills" will not do much to promote free speech.
The acting is very strong here, with excellent performances by Geoffrey Rush, Kate Winslet and Joaquin Phoenix. Once again, Michael Caine phones in another uninspired performance. The directing is thoughtful, humorous, and well-paced. Kudos to the production designer, costumer, and cinematographer.
The acting is very strong here, with excellent performances by Geoffrey Rush, Kate Winslet and Joaquin Phoenix. Once again, Michael Caine phones in another uninspired performance. The directing is thoughtful, humorous, and well-paced. Kudos to the production designer, costumer, and cinematographer.