The film is loosely based on a nineteenth century novella called Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk District by Nikolai Leskov and was later adapted as an Opera.
Florence Pugh (The Falling and Screen Star of Tomorrow) takes the lead in the 19th Century period drama. Former Screen Star of Tomorrow Cosmo Jarvis (Spooks: The Greater Good) plays opposite Pugh while supporting cast include Paul Hilton (Wuthering Heights), newcomer Naomi Ackie and Christopher Fairbank (Guardians of the Galaxy).
I’ve got to be honest: history was never my strong point at school. There was something about the vast differences in style, attitude and affairs from years gone by that didn’t resonate with me.
As I fast-forward from my younger years, I learn to appreciate the intrigue of history lessons.
In movie terms, history can be hugely pleasurable when the direction is good and the plot draws you in. The premise of Lady Macbeth seems perfect for the big screen.
Rural England, 1865. Katherine (Florence Pugh) is stifled by her loveless marriage to a bitter man twice her age, and his cold, unforgiving family. When she embarks on a passionate affair with a young worker on her husband’s estate, a force is unleashed inside her so powerful that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants.
Girl power? Probably. Here we have a beautiful, determined and merciless young woman seizing her independence in a world dominated by men. It might not, however, be the kind of female influence that is fun for all the family.
Whilst the design of the movie is all about looking back, its backbone appear to be about nurturing for the future: the script was written by up and coming playwright Alice Birch, winner of the 2014 George Devine Award for Most Promising Playwright. We could potentially be looking at a catalyst for a future of riveting cinema.
● Lady Macbeth is released in the UK and Ireland on April 28.
