The Duchess Blu-ray

Release Date: December 28, 2008
Length: 109 minutes
Rating: PG-13 (Mature Themes)
T2 Rating: 3 out of 4 stars

Paramount Pictures releases to DVD and Blu-ray disc The Duchess. Starring Kiera Knightley and Ralph Fienne, this 18th century period film is based on the true story of Georgiana Spencer, Duchess of Devonshire. The set for this movie is absolutely beautiful because they actually filmed it at various historic locations including Chatsworth, which was the country estate where Georgiana lived as Duchess. The costumes were some of the most amazing period garments made to-date. And since the movie solely focused on the life of the Duchess, Kiera appeared in every scene in the movie except for one; a tireless effort on her part that she pulled off incredibly well. Her knack for depicting strong emotion, just by the look on her face is worth noting, because she really pulls the viewer in to the character Georgiana’s pain. However, it must be said that the overall feeling of this movie is very depressing, and rather hopeless. It has a way of evoking “righteous anger” from the viewer for the transgressions brought against Georgiana.

The Blu-ray release offers fascinating insights into the life and person of Georgiana Spencer. More is learned of her as a person through these mini-documentaries than in the movie itself. They will leave you wanting to find out more about her by doing a Wikipedia search, reading the biography, or even by visiting the estate of Chatsworth.

(Please keep in mind this film was rated PG-13 but really pushed the envelope).

-Sarah