OPENS: FRIDAY 9/18
Based on the doomed affair between English poet John Keats (charmer Ben Whishaw) and neighbor Fanny Brawne (Abbie Cornish) — whom Keats deemed the “bright star” of his work — Jane Campion’s romance is as heady as expensive floral perfume. Recalling a young Nicole Kidman, Cornish delivers her most memorable performance. While Keats’ death at 25 gives the story its tragic edge, Campion’s
striking images of the pair show that true love can survive many lifetimes.
—THELMA ADAMS