written by reviewkitten on 25/08/2010
Atonement is an adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel of the same name. Set before the outbreak of World War II, the story follows the blossoming love between Knightly and MacAvoy that is cut short by the jealous accusation of Knightly's younger sister. The following narrative of two star crossed lovers being separated by the war and their struggle to survive is sweetly told with heart breaking moments on both sides as the war takes its toll.
The characters are well thought out and acted well by the cast and the photography and costumes bring the period setting to life.
The ending is sad and somehow inevitable so prepare to have a few tissues handy. Atonement is a great love story set against the savage backdrop of War; I found it the perfect film to curl up with some chocolate on a lazy afternoon.