Often an engaging and intelligent film can go unnoticed by the general populace due to not be touted as the “next big blockbuster” to hit screens. In the case of Jane Campion’s “Bright Star”, I fear that may be the case, so in defense of the lesser known film I write these encouraging words: “Bright Star” is witty, literary and moving and is not to be missed by fans of romantic period pieces or simple lovers of poetry in general.

The story of 19th century poet John Keats, who himself died at the young age of 25, and his love next door, Fanny Brawne, is the heart and soul that drive this film. Their relationship is both passionate and sensual without ever crossing the pre-Victorian codes of courtship. The dialogue between Keats and Branwe develops from a passing flirtation into a deep resonating fervor for one another spoken at times with mere glances that speak volumes in silence.

Abbie Cornish’s vivid portrayal of Fanny allows the viewer a window into the inspiration Keats must have derived when authoring the sonnet “Bright Star”. Her ability to capture both the exuberance and melancholy of the character with minimal ease makes her dazzling to view. Ben Wishaw’s John Keats is not the typical leading man of romantic period pieces. He is instead a meager man with ink-stained hands bewildered and overcome by the radiant nature of Cornish’s Brawne. Without funds or estate entitling him to woo and marry his cherished neighbor, Keats instead finds himself caught up in the art of word play, peppering his exchanges with Brawne with a genteel delight in her beauty, described majestically by the heart of a poet.

I was fortunate enough to have my beautiful bride accompany me to see this film and although not entirely familiar with the back story beforehand, we both walked away satisfied and grateful for the experience. Keats’ love story is told in an innocent style, focusing on substance instead of flash. The story does take some time developing and some viewers may find the lack of action or pacing challenging at times. This might be a good date night(depending on your mate’s tolerance for romantic period films) or possibly a girls only matinee. For those with a palette for a well developed romance with endearing characterization however, there lies an intimately intriguing tale of a poet and his object of adoration.

Grade: A