That story tells about James Stevens (Anthony Hopkins), the English personal servant to Lord Darlington. The story began when this servant sacrificed body and soul to serve in the years before World War II, and later realized how misguided his loyalty to the lord was, where there seemed to be more to be discovered.
The narrative structure (long flashbacks, letters) is awkward but the actors (Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson in top form) attention to detail is meticulous and piercing considering how muted the emotions are.
All the meticulousness, intelligence, taste and superior acting that one expects from Merchant Ivory productions have been brought to bear.
TV Guide
February 11, 2008
Though it offers a host of fine performances in a smoothly crafted, adult drama of unfulfilled love, it lacks the cumulative dramatic impact of the team's best work.
Here's a film for adults. It's also about time to recognize that Mr. Ivory is one of our finest directors, something that critics tend to overlook because most of his films have been literary adaptations.
Rolling Stone
May 12, 2001
What do you call filmmakers who make literary entertainment box office in the age of Beavis and Butt-bead? Try miracle workers.
Needcoffee.com
September 24, 2005
First time I saw it, it destroyed me. Subsequent viewings have not improved my condition.
TheMovieReport.com
December 28, 2008
Moves rather slowly, but the actors and their understated chemistry keep the film riveting, building to a climax that is absolutely heartrending.