Anna Karenina review: The fur hats impress but not much else does

The trailer boasted a kind-of Baz Luhrrmann type epic, but the movie unfortunately did not quite live up to these standards, as a storyline that probably could have been acted out in 30 minutes became over 2 hours of dragged-out sexual tension, leading to an unbelievably predictable ending.

Based on the classic Tolstoy novel, the plot centres around the young wife of a powerful Russian who embarks on a life-changing affair with a young Count. Set in the 19^th Century, the style of the piece is unusual. Playing out much like a theatre production with many scenes framed with a stage or random dance numbers mid-drama. Despite being aesthetically pleasing and certainly different in its stylistics, this added to the confusions, that the plotline had already upon the viewers.

The pacing and timing seemed to be the biggest issue within this film. Parts are tediously slow, with barely any dialogue passing between any of the characters. The best the audience gets is a few “intense” passing glances, which really just looks like the actors are playing a game of ‘Who Can Open Their Eyes The Widest And Make Small Gasps?’ For a story that is meant to be a grand classic, there doesn’t seem to be any story whatsoever.

Knightley really doesn’t appear to be broadening her acting talents in this, as many films of hers have seen her play the wealthy female, tortured by love before.  Kick-Ass’ Aaron Johnson barely says a word, and Jude Law doesn’t seem to be allowed enough screen-time to recover the faults made by the others.

What DOES save this movie considerably is the costuming. Particularly as a female viewer, I was in awe of the style created by the Oscar-nominated designer behind the clothes worn in Pride & Prejudice and Atonement. It’s evident she had an elaborate budget for this piece, really capturing the affluent Aristocratic fashion of Russia in the 1800’s. Cue lots of fur, and lavish head wear.

In all, Anna Karenina promised everything, but gave very little and is not really worth the ticket price. But if you’re into decadence and outrageously beautiful clothes then you may enjoy it a bit more.