The 2008 film The Duchess, starring Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes, is now available for free streaming on BBC iPlayer. Directed by Saul Dibb, the historical drama is based on Amanda Foreman's 1998 book, Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, which tells the compelling story of Georgiana Cavendish, the Duchess of Devonshire, a prominent figure in late 18th-century England.
Georgiana, portrayed by Knightley, was not just an aristocrat but also a distant relative of Princess Diana, being the elder sister of Diana's great, great, great grandfather, George Spencer, 2nd Earl Spencer. This connection adds a fascinating layer to the story, as it intertwines the lives of two iconic women from different eras.
In the film, Knightley explores the intricate dynamics of Georgiana's marriage to William Cavendish, the 5th Duke of Devonshire, played by Fiennes. Their relationship is marked by passion and turmoil, reflecting the constraints and expectations placed on women of that time. The film does not shy away from depicting the more explicit aspects of their lives, including scenes of full frontal nudity, notably a bold corset-ripping scene that has sparked discussions among viewers.
Alongside Knightley and Fiennes, the film features a talented cast including Hayley Atwell, Charlotte Rampling, Dominic Cooper, Aidan McArdle, Simon McBurney, and Sebastian Applewhite. Each actor contributes to the rich tapestry of the narrative, bringing to life the opulence and struggles of the aristocracy.
Upon its release, The Duchess received positive reviews from critics and proved to be a commercial success, earning $43.3 million against a budget of $13.5 million. Its artistic achievements were recognized at the 81st Academy Awards, where it won the award for Best Costume Design and was nominated for Best Art Direction.
Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Knightley's performance. One viewer on Rotten Tomatoes remarked, "Hands Keira Knightley another plum leading role and serves as yet another example of how Ralph Fiennes' brooding brand of acting can be successfully employed for all manner of characters." Another fan noted, "The film's real scene-stealer is Fiennes... Despite playing a cad of few words, he manages to elicit both hatred and sympathy from the audience in equal amounts."
Many viewers have highlighted Knightley's ability to portray the evolution of Georgiana's character throughout the film. One comment encapsulated this sentiment: "Knightley shines, taking Georgiana from carefree teen to ignored wife then motherhood in a hugely sensitive and honest portrayal. The outfits are stunning, their scale extraordinary, the attention to detail first class; with fashions changing as she does."
Another viewer expressed deep emotional resonance with the film, stating, "This is meant to be Ms Knightley's film, and in many ways it is. She is in every frame, looks dazzling throughout, and must act with something behind the eyes because in two of her scenes... I welled up rather seriously." Such reactions underscore the film's impact, as it not only entertains but also evokes a strong emotional response.
As viewers continue to discover The Duchess on BBC iPlayer, it stands as a testament to the power of historical drama in shedding light on the complexities of women's lives in the past. The film not only tells Georgiana's story but also invites audiences to reflect on the societal norms and expectations that continue to resonate today.
In summary, The Duchess is a beautifully crafted film that combines stunning visuals, a compelling narrative, and powerful performances. With its availability for free streaming, it offers a chance for both new viewers and those who enjoyed it upon its initial release to experience the poignant tale of Georgiana Cavendish once more.
