![]() (Omitted from the film is Effie’s post-annulment story as she went on to marry Millais and have a very long, very happy and very loving marriage.)Īlthough somewhat toned down from actual historical documentation of the Effie’s life and the “scandalous” nature of her existence, not to mention the complete and utter dysfunction of the Ruskin family, and steers clear of being a psycho-sexual playground, thanks to Thompson’s script, Laxton’s direction and a stellar performance by Dakota Fanning as EFFIE GRAY, the film soars with pro-feminism thematics. Those flirtatious moments lead to a deep love which serves as the impetus for Effie to have her marriage annulled on grounds of Ruskin’s impotency. ![]() While the trip is supposed to be for the benefit of Effie and hopefully as a means to save her marriage, it is anything but, as Ruskin brings Millais along and, given he has no interest in his own wife, requests Millais spend time with Effie. While Thompson’s script never addresses much of the documented public scrutiny and innuendo over the couple, she delves deeply enough into John and the Ruskin family to provide a strong foundation for the emotional arc of Effie, so much so, that one is touched, moved and cheering for Effie when she falls in love with rising new-artist John Everett Millais while on a doctor prescribed therapeutic stay in Scotland (to get Effie away from her mother-in-law). Moving his bride into the Ruskin family home proved problematic from the start for both Effie and what would become a doomed marriage thanks in large part to a perceived “mama’s boy” relationship between Margaret Ruskin and son John. Ruskin, 29-years old to the 19-year old virginal Effie, was anything but a loving husband and there has been much debate and discussion over the centuries as to why he never seemed to “rise to the occasion” as a suitable husband for Effie. ![]() Then put this solid script in the hands of director Richard Laxton, steep the film in beautiful and immersive production design and high production values, and we are transported into 19th century London and the world of EFFIE GRAY.Ī well known true story of sexual repression, not to mention societal scandal, Euphemia “Effie” Gray was a young Scottish lass who, in 1848, married the leading art critic of the day, John Ruskin. Leave it to screenwriter Emma Thompson to deliver yet another period piece showcasing a strong female lead with an equally powerful female driven voice throughout the film. ![]()
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