This movie was a Gala Presentation at the 25th Anniversary Toronto Film Festival. I left the World Premier in stunned silence. The film is a wonderful blend of history and drama based on the life of Samuel Taylor Coleridge and his relationship with William Wordsworth. Yes, it sounded kind of dry to me too. It's not! The performances are full of passion and energy, especially Linus Roache (Priest) as S.T.C. John Hannah (Sliding Doors), Samantha Morton (Sweet and Lowdown), and Emily Woof (The Full Monty) are also wonderful. The cinematography is stunningly beautiful, mixing a perfectly realized past with images of the present to create a breathtaking view of the poets world. The script is a portrait of a haunted, drug dependant genius and is totally compelling and absolutely authentic. The score is understated and emotional. Julian Temple's visual approach to a highly emotional narrative accentuates the spirit rather than the letter of the time. He manipulates time with a full range of visual effects that seamlessly combine the political and cultural background of 18th century Great Britain with contemporary themes like creativity, addiction and betrayal. A powerful look at the lives of two of the English language's greatest poets, Pandaemonium is one of those rare films that communicates the passions that drive great writers and intellects. Destined to be one of the important films of this new decade!
Review of Pandaemonium
