Angels & Insects

Angels & Insects is a gem of a film from 1995, set in the Victorian era that weaves an intricate and gripping story of love, obsession and natural science. The movie, directed by Philip Haas, is a British/American romantic drama, based on the novel "Morpho Eugenia" by A.S. Byatt. Backed by an impeccable cast, the film stimulates with its intellectual richness, visual splendor and emotional depth.

The story introduces us to William Adamson, played by Mark Rylance, an inquisitive and passionate biologist. Following a shipwreck on his return from an Amazon expedition, William loses all his collected specimens and is left penniless. Taken in by his wealthy benefactor, the explorer Sir Harald Alabaster, William is enchanted by the intellectual and ornamental life in the grand Victorian household.

In the Alabaster mansion, he meets the intriguing Alabaster family. Among them is the Sir Harald's eldest daughter, Eugenia, portrayed by the versatile Patsy Kensit. Eugenia, a grieving widow, forms a connection with William. Their growing relationship forms the crux of the narrative, with its resultant trials, tribulations and emotional complexities.

Another crucial character in the storyline is Matty Crompton, Sir Harald's companion and a governess in the family. Kristin Scott Thomas brings this mysterious and quietly intelligent character to life with her nuanced performance. The unique dynamic between William and Matty, poised between intellectual compatibility and unspoken affection, adds another dimension to the plot.

The narrative interweaves the realms of emotion and science with striking efficacy. William's fascination with insects, particularly ants and their intricate societal structure, runs in parallel to the social dynamics of the human society around him. This juxtaposition forms a predominant theme in the film, often serving to underline and mirror the happenings in human society with that of the insect world.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of Angels & Insects is its astonishing visual portrayal. There is a profound attention to detail, particularly visible in the film’s costumes that are works of art in themselves. The dresses, mostly resembling the insect world, give a life of their own to the characters and the atmosphere therein. As the narrative progresses, the viewer can't help but marvel at the fabulous eccentricity of the Victorian era presented through its fashion.

The screenplay is highly engaging, bolstered by sharp dialogues that enhance character revealing and plot progression. The resulting dialogues become a mix of science, philosophy, societal discussions and deeply introspective thoughts. These highbrow conversations are juxtaposed against beautifully captured sequences depicting the character’s silent observations of nature and its creatures, adding a certain contemplative aura to the film.

Angels & Insects is not the conventional romantic drama. It successfully brings together the elements of period romance and nature study, resulting in an unusual and compelling narrative. With a title symbolizing the division between the spheres of heavenly love (Angels) and earthly instincts (Insects), the film delves into the complexities of human nature and societal norms, with the backdrop of the Victorian era setting the mood.

Through its lead performances, the movie achieves accurate portrayals of both emotional intricacy and keen scientific interest. Mark Rylance brings a sensitive portrayal of William, who is both a man of science and a man ensnared by his emotions. Kristin Scott Thomas, with her understated performance, brings forth the complexity of the intelligent and elusive Matty. Patsy Kensit captivates with her stunning performance as the alluring and troubled Eugenia.

Angels & Insects stand out as a film that is thought-provoking and profoundly layered. Its narrative and visual appeal are not just limited to the human drama at its centre but extend to the macrocosm of the insect world, striking a parallel in patterns of society and survival. Those with an appreciation for intellectually stimulating cinema, period dramas and a curiosity about the world of insects would find this movie especially appealing. A must-watch for film enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted mix of romance, science and thought-provoking themes.