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Netflix’s Rebecca is based on the 1938’s novel of the same name written by Daphne du Maurier, but it’s not its first cinematic adaptation, which leads me to the following shameful statement: I’ve never seen the famous Alfred Hitchcock’s version of this story (nor have I read the novel, but I firmly defend that this doesn’t matter). It’s the only film of Hitchcock’s filmography to have received the Best Picture award, so I admit that I’m much at fault here. However, Ben Wheatley isn’t directing a... read the rest.

Splendid Remake!

At the start, Wheatley’s direction sails us around an elegant coastal hotel in this lavish period drama. With enviable period fashion and classic cars, a wicked, obtrusive employer is easily replaced by a quietly confident Maxim, handsomely and splendidly played by Mr. Hammer. How lucky is the beautiful (yet daunted) lady’s companion to have met him. Or is shi?

Mr. Hammer’s Maxim is not cocky or patronizing as Mr. Olivier’s in 1940; Mr. Hammer is quite appealing at the start. Miss James offers as brilliant a performance as Joan Fontaine’s in 1940. I also prefer this... read the rest.