Restoration

Restoration is definitely not to be considered as a "serious" historical drama. It is a romantic, period morality tale about a redeemed sinner, which has much in common with the costume French blockbusters of the 60s and 70s, such as Angelique. The film's strong aspect is its set design and star-studded cast, and the backing of a major American studio is undeniable. The film is made with ease, it presents itself as likable consumer goods that doesn't embarrass itself and approaches historical reality with a certain dignity. Moreover, it can skillfully work with emotions, moving and entertaining exactly where the authors intended. Even the clichés used here are not offensive. It is a cultured genre spectacle, somewhat more accommodating to a female audience. Overall impression: 75%. (01/12/2021)

I can’t shake the feeling that Americans shot the best epic period pieces around the 1980’s and 1990’s. Restoration is exactly that kind of movie. The premise is clear-cut and it has an amazing flow. The movie’s amazing to watch and the film-making quality aged well. (20/08/2018)