Cast
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Cate Blanchett
as Lady Gertrude Chiltern
Minnie Driver
as Miss Mabel Chiltern
Rupert Everett
as Lord Arthur Goring
Julianne Moore
as Mrs. Laura Cheveley
Jeremy Northam
as Sir Robert Chiltern
Peter Vaughan
as Phipps
Ben Pullen
as Tommy Trafford
Marsha Fitzalan
as Countess
Lindsay Duncan
as Lady Markby
John Wood
as Lord Caversham
Simon Russell Beale
as Sir Edward
Charles Edwards
as Jack
Oliver Ford Davies
as Sir Hugo Danforth
Susannah Wise
as Young Mother
John Thompson
as The Speaker
Crew
Director
- Oliver Parker
Producer
- Bruce Davey
- Barnaby Thompson
- Uri Fruchtmann
Reviews
CinemaSerf
"Sir Robert Chiltern" (Jeremy Northam) is a British cabinet minister with a secret! He is determined that it remain exactly that - from his wife (Cate Blanchett) and from his political masters. Perhaps not too shrewdly, he turns to his rather underwhelming pal "Lord Goring" (Rupert Everett) whom he knows is well acquainted with his new found nemesis "Mrs. Cheveley" (Julianne Moore). With a parliamentary debate fast looming, and "Sir Robert" - in his role as a junior minister having a crucial role in a substantial government investment in Argentina - having to endorse or not, he finds himself in quite a quandary. Meantime, of course, "Goring" must try to help his friend whilst dealing with issues of his own with a disapproving father (John Wood) and poor old "Mabel" (Minnie Driver). What ensues here now is a lovely piece of Oscar Wilde satire that shines a light on a flawed political establishment with which he was probably quite well acquainted, and in which Rupert Everett shines. Though featuring only sparingly, he deftly portrays this outwardly lazy and spoilt gent with quite an engaging skill as we discover he is nowhere near as much of the hapless rake as he would have folks believe. His night of the visitors - when he must jig from room to room adopting a differing persona each time is really quite good fun to watch - and quite plausible too. The problem here is the rest of the ensemble. It's one of these sum of the parts scenarios. The big names are there, but the characters aren't. Moore really doesn't exude the Machiavellian nastiness I wanted from her and there's only so many times I can watch Blanchett do that thing with her eyes that is meant to suggest a myriad of emotions. Northam was only ever really adequate and here he fares no better, despite having a strong character to work with. I still think Wilde works best on the stage - there's a spontaneity there that makes his works sing. Here, it really only sort of murmurs with the odd potent spluttering of humour now and again. Looks splendid, though.
Feb 15, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, An Ideal Husband examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Oliver Parker brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of An Ideal Husband took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $14.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 498 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1426 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While An Ideal Husband shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Show Boat, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, An Ideal Husband offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Barefoot in the Park and Gypsy explore similar territory, An Ideal Husband stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 14, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Budget: $14,000,000
- Revenue: $18,500,000
