Relative Values

Relative Values is a delightful and engaging British comedy film that came out in 2000. Directed by Eric Styles, the film stars the irreplaceable Julie Andrews, talented Edward Atterton, and American actor William Baldwin. The screenplay is penned by Paul Rattigan and Michael Walker, based on the 1951 play of the same name by Noël Coward. The film flawlessly blends elements of comedy and romance, making it an entertaining watch from start to finish.

The story is set in the early 1950s and unfolds in the aristocratic world of England, riven with class prejudice and family dynamics. Julie Andrews offers a standout performance in her role as Felicity Marshwood; she is the widow of a British nobleman and the matriarch of the Marshwoods - an aristocratic family trying to cope with the changing social order. Her consistently sterling performance adds depth to the character, and her superb comic timing brings believability to the role.

Edward Atterton plays Peter Ingleton, the personal secretary to the Marshwood family. He is not only a secretary but also a friend and confidante, which Atterton portrays with a comprehensive understanding of the character. His performance provides substance and stability to the plot.

William Baldwin plays the role of Don Lucas, a stereotypical Hollywood persona. Lucas's character takes a turn when the two different cultures clash in humorous settings in this film. Baldwin manages to evoke laughter with his flamboyant and unconventional portrayal of an American movie star.

The plot of Relative Values revolves around the high society British Marshwood family's reaction when the young Nigel Marshwood (Edward Atterton) reveals his plans to marry a popular American film actress, Miranda Frayle (played by Jeanne Tripplehorn). Felicity Marshwood (Julie Andrews), the matriarch, is dedicated to maintaining proper decorum for her family's name and reputation. Not pleased by the impending marriage, she and the family butler (British actor Colin Firth) devise a plan to sabotage the union.

Simultaneously, another subplot kicks in, providing the movie with an extra layer of comedic charm. To deal with the situation fish-out-of-water style, Felicity gets her maid Moxie (Sophie Thompson) to masquerade as her long-lost sister, creating hilarious misunderstandings and a series of comic situations.

The film is well-distinguished with its distinct British humor and sophistication, which adds to the overall charm of the story. The cultural contrasts between the English aristocracy and Hollywood's glitz and glamor creates many funny moments, highlighting the different ways each society handles comparable situations.

Director Eric Styles showcases the lifestyle of the British aristocracy with a real flair, while also putting forward a satirical view of this refined society. His effective use of locations, costumes, and language depicts the time period aptly. Paul Rattigan and Michael Walker's screenplay also warrants mention for its witty dialogues and slapstick humor, succeeding in establishing Relative Values as a high-quality contemporary comedy steeped in traditional theatrical roots.

The supporting cast, including Stephen Fry, Jeanne Tripplehorn, and Colin Firth, also deliver impressive performances, contributing significantly to the film's atmosphere and narrative. Fry plays a British celebrity journalist and does an excellent job offering comic relief during more tense scenes.

In summary, Relative Values is an effervescent, light-hearted, and well-crafted comedy film that will genuinely entertain viewers who appreciate British humor intermingled with a lively plot. Its impressive star-studded cast, excellent script and direction, and the intricate plot lines help create an engaging cinematic journey, capturing the essence and spirit of Noël Coward's original play, making it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys intelligent, witty comedies.