THE BEGUILED: A remake of the Clint Eastwood and Geraldine Page film from 1971, this retelling by director and screenwriter Sofia Coppola takes an almost Jane Austin approach to the proceedings. Colin Farrell stars as an injured Union soldier and deserter during the Civil War who takes refuge in a Southern girls boarding school run by Nicole Kidman. Soon one of the teachers, (Kirsten Dunst) as well as a student (Elle Fanning) fall under the spell of the handsome stranger and sexual tensions begin to arise. With a minimal score, Ms. Coppola has decided on atmosphere with a capital A. It is a moody piece replete with fog and Spanish moss. While I liked this version, I somehow felt more satisfied with the earlier one. Perhaps Ms. Page had a better lock on the "spinster" side of the character. However, Kidman and Farrell give outstanding performances and I recommend it. But be forewarned, it may not be your cup of bourbon.
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