Film Overview"Angel" is a 2007 British-French film directed by François Ozon. The motion picture is based on Elizabeth Taylor's book of the exact same name and starring Romola Garai in the leading role. The story is set in the Edwardian age and tells the story of Angel Deverell, a girl from a modest background who wishes for a glamorous life as a successful writer.
Plot SummaryThe movie begins with Angel Deverell, a poor teenage girl who matures dreaming of one day becoming a well-known author. Regardless of her modest beginnings, she is increasingly determined to make her mark in the world and stops at absolutely nothing to realize her dreams. Angel writes continuously, and her creative stories soon attract the attention of publisher Theo Gilbright.
Persuaded of her potential, Theo decides to release Angel's novels which end up being melodramatic and doing not have in literary quality however are a big business success. Angel's rags-to-riches journey remains in full swing as she enjoys her newly found popularity and wealth, buying a lavish estate, Paradise House, which she's always fantasized about.
Characters and RelationshipsIn her personal life, Angel fulfills Nora, Theo's wife, who becomes her confidant and closest friend. Nora's twin brother Esmé, a bohemian painter, is at first important of Angel's work however grows fond of her with time. Over time, Angel and Esmé cultivate a progressing love and get married.
Nevertheless, Angel's marital relationship to Esmé is less than euphoric as she struggles to stabilize her personal life with her requiring career. Angel wanders off far from reality, refusing to accept Esmé's adultery with Nora and overlooks Esmé throughout his time in war. Their relationship degrades, resulting in Esmé's tragic death which leaves Angel in shock and further distances her from reality.
Film's Climax and ConclusionAs time passes, Angel's popularity wanes and she falls out of favor with the general public. Her books are gotten improperly and slammed for their absence of class and literary value. She begins losing her fortune however is determined about maintaining her luxurious way of life at Paradise House.
In the end, Angel's rejection to accept truth and her stubborn adherence to her dream world causes her downfall. The film concludes with Angel, alone in her grand home that is now in ruins, fantasizing about a shared life with Esmé.
Thematic Discussion"Angel" offers a complex expedition of the life of a passionate, stubborn yet ignorant character, whose aspiration to rise above her station in life propels her towards success and ultimately isolates her. The movie looks into themes of aspiration, fame, love, and the harsh truths of life; contrasting Angel's extravagant dream with the harsh truths she disregards.
The dreamy atmosphere is balanced with Angel's disconcerting self-delusion, and Ozon weaves a complex tale of dreams vs truth. Garai's performance perfectly captures Angel's staunch decision, her stubbornness, and, ultimately, the terrible consequences of her self-created dream.
In general, "Angel" is a poignant picture of a woman who looked for and achieved her dreams, living by her guidelines till the end, irrespective of her rotting fortunes and loneliness.
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