‘Masterpiece’ period drama based on ‘brilliant’ novel is ‘the best classic you’ll watch’ | Films | Entertainment
A period drama that many people missed when it first came out is being talked about again, with viewers calling it one of the best classic films ever made. It looks like a straightforward story at first, but those who have watched it recently say it is far more detailed than they remembered.
The film deals with strict social rules and many people say it has become more meaningful with time. It has also introduced new viewers to the novel it is based on, which has been praised for more than a century. Reviews describe it as thoughtful, sharp and beautifully acted. Some viewers even call it a “masterpiece”.
The film, and the book behind it, is The Age of Innocence. Viewers have praised the film for over two decades, with many calling it one of Martin Scorsese’s most impressive works.
One person said: “It’s Scorsese’s ignored masterpiece. I actually saw this movie when it was released in 1993, and honestly it was pretty dull then. Of course I was 22, and the workings of that late-1800’s New York society really didn’t make much sense or have much relevance.
“I think the film may have been ignored at its release because of the slew of other period pieces, which were so popular in the late 80s and early 90s. But watching it again some years later, this film is anything but common. It’s a masterpiece.”
Another added: “It’s the best and the most cinematic kind of period drama. Scorsese surpasses his material to make a beautiful, bravura masterpiece. This amazingly rich, often witty film, grows on you with each repeat viewing.”
A third wrote: “The Age of Innocence is simply the best work by director Martin Scorsese and is deservedly entitled to the numerous accolades it has received. I highly recommend this film to everyone.”
Someone else commented: “This film is exactly the reason why Scorsese is one of the great filmmakers. And this is one of the greatest films ever made.”
The 1993 adaptation stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer and Winona Ryder, telling the story of Newland Archer, a wealthy lawyer caught between duty and desire in 1870s New York.
It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design and was nominated for Best Supporting Actress, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score and Best Art Direction.
It also earned Golden Globe and BAFTA wins, including a BAFTA for Miriam Margolyes.
The novel behind the film has also long been admired. Edith Wharton’s 1920 book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, making her the first woman to receive the award.
One reviewer said: “Let me tell you nothing about the book other than you have to read it. It is beautiful and brilliant.”
Another wrote: “I can read this book again and again and each time I get something new from it.
“The novel is a masterly depiction of the Golden Age in the United States. It’s a worthy Pulitzer Prize winner.”
In more good news for TV series fans, a new Netflix show based on The Age of Innocence is set to be released in 2026, starring Kristine Froseth, Ben Radcliffe, Camila Morrone and Margo Martindale.
It is set to revisit the love triangle at the heart of the novel for a modern global audience.
