Thomas Middleton's oft-produced but rarely filmed play receives fine handling in this made-for-TV production. Elizabeth McGovern plays Beatrice-Joanna, one of the most remarkably cynical female characters in literature, and Bob Hoskins plays her lustful, manipulative servant DeFlores -- though the play raises questions about who is truly master here! Good-to-excellent performances by all the featured actors (particularly Ms. McGovern and Mr. Hoskins). Also a good chance to see Hugh Grant before major stardom swept over him.
The 1974 version with Hellen Mirren, Stanley Baker, and Brian Cox is also first-rate, but unavailable! Skip the '98 Marcus Thompson version!
I rate this one ***½ (out of four).
The 1974 version with Hellen Mirren, Stanley Baker, and Brian Cox is also first-rate, but unavailable! Skip the '98 Marcus Thompson version!
I rate this one ***½ (out of four).