Whishaw as Sebastian is a brilliant combination of vulnerability and charisma. While he is obviously effeminate he never once crosses the line into camp or making his character an object of ridicule. While to all outward appearances he is the epitome of dissolute nobility, Whishaw is able to make him substantial enough that we can understand why Charles is attracted to him. There is an inner core of steel underneath the fey exterior that gives him the strength of character needed to survive the betrayals and hurts his character experiences at the hands of those he loves the most. It's a breathtaking performance by an incredibly skilled and talented actor.
The version of the DVD that I viewed was widescreen which helped to emphasis the grandeur of the Brideshead estate so that, like Charles, our first view takes our breath away and leaves us slightly awe struck. As is the case with all new releases the sound is 5.1 surround, but it was a bit overwhelming at times with the orchestration drowning out some of the dialogue even when played through a surround sound system. As far as special features go there is the usual optional audio commentary that can be listened to while watching the movie, a collection of deleted scenes, and a making of featurette.
When I first heard that a film version of Brideshead Revisited was being released I admit I had my doubts as to its ability to compete with the mini-series that had been released in the early 1980s. However through a combination of superlative performances and intelligent film making, the people behind this new release have created their own masterpiece. A remarkable achievement and a wonderful film.
![Brideshead Revisited (2008) [Blu-ray]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51746bm9N%2BL._SL120_.jpg)
Article comments
1 - El Bicho
I had the same trepidation you did because the '81 series seemed impossible to compete with, like someone trying to remake The Godfather, but you have convinced me to give it a chance. Good review.
2 - Richard Marcus
Thanks El Bicho
I think the performance by Ben Whishaw has to be one of the best pieces of acting that I've seen in years. He was astounding.
Richard
3 - bliffle
I, of course, am a big fan of the original Granada series, having watched it week after week in the early 80s, as it was presented, and then again one memorable New Years day when it was presented uninterrupted from beginning to end even as my sports buddies beat on my door demanding that I join them for the big 5 screen TV sports gorging that they had organized next door.
It's undeniably great. I'm buying the DVDs of the original. Perhaps I'll watch this new version, too.