The first half of the movie evokes its era with great panache. The entire cast is brilliant. Costumes, set design, and photography are all rather first rate. The end itself is equally well performed and memorable. However, director Yates gives Courtenay much too much slack in his leash prior to the denouement. The result is a series of interminable ramblings leading to a none-too-shocking disclosure. Nevertheless, the film recovers nicely at its conclusion.