Miss Potter
Well, my mother and I spent yesterday afternoon in the Lake District–via the delightful new film, Miss Potter, which chronicles the literary journey of our beloved Beatrix. It was so enchanting–so altogether lovely–that we were walking on air when we came out of the theatre. That hasn’t happened to me in a long, long time! And instead of the traffic and noise of one of the (ugliest) parts of town, my eyes were filled with visions of sweeping vistas of mountains and lakes, peaceful pastoral vignettes and cozy rooms–treasures themselves preserved by Beatrix Potter’s conservation efforts.
I thought that the movie captured the flavor of a staid but beauty-filled era. The trappings that hampered Beatrix’s personal freedoms seemed almost whimsical, even for one as old-fashioned as I! 😉 But the seriousness and courage with which the most popular author of children’s books of all time pursued what she loved was treated with a genteel respect–richly deserved, in my opinion. I’ve always loved Beatrix Potter–from the pre-Amazon days when some of the first books of hers I ever laid eyes on were the ones my grandparents brought back to me from England in the early 80’s. And now, as an adult with dreams of my own, her story, interpreted through this film, has inspired me afresh to live passionately in all that I love.
It’s rare to see a movie that is simply lovely fron start to finish, but that’s what Miss Potter is. Renee Zellweger’s adorably frumpy and un-selfconscious Beatrix is a breath of fresh air in such a glamor-obsessed age. She made me want to pull on my Wellies, plunge my hands in the pockets of a long wool cardigan, and set off for a ramble over the hills. My own dear pastures will have to suffice, but that’s alright. This is where I belong…
I was so happy to see a new Lanier post on Bloglines today.
I’ve already posted a link to your review on my blog. I had been wondering if Miss Potter was a good movie after hearing about it last week.
Thank you, Brenda! It’s good to be back! 😉
Oh I can hardly wait!! I was holding my breath – hoping – hoping – hoping that it would be well done.
Now I know that it is!
Thanks so much Lanier!!
Welcome back, Lanier! I”ve missed your posts lo these past weeks (and weeks, and weeks, and…). Thanks for the movie review, too.
Yes, it has been quite a while, Deb! 😉
I’m hoping to be back on a regular posting schedule now that both NaNoWriiMo and the holidays are behind us…
Hope you like the movie…you, too, IslandSparrow! 🙂
I have been interested in this movie ever since I heard about it a couple months ago. Your review has made me even more interested…particularly since I know so little about Beatrix Potter. It appears that it isn’t showing in any of the theaters around here, though, which is quite disappointing. 🙁
Lanier, I do so enjoy your writings. I haven’t previously commented, but just HAD to with today’s writing! I, too, went to see Miss Potter and was utterly enthralled by it. Sadly, it is rare nowadays to be able to watch a film which contains no profanity, etc. I came out of Miss Potter glowing with vitality for life! So much so that I have booked a long weekend in the Lake District next month – shall I give ‘Hill Top’ your love?!
Oh, yes, Grace! Do give my fondest regards to Hill Top!! 😉
Oh, to be in England now that [March ;)] is there…
Lanier,
I just saw Miss Potter tonight with my mom, after being afire to see it due to your review. The images were like a dream but sparklingly real, and the story was simple, sweet, and well-rounded. I could see why especially you liked it, with the same era as Anne of Green Gables and the strong sisterly friendships portrayed. Thank you so much for the recommendation! I am planning a party to watch the DVD upon release with some high school girls and friends. For the menu I was considering muffins, lemonade, iced tea, strawberries, and carrots; do you have any other suggestions?
To God be all glory,
Lisa of Longbourn
I’m so happy that you liked it, Lisa! And your party sounds like so much fun…what a worthy way to celebrate the release of such a beautiful film.
Your menu sounds great 🙂 … little cookies or scones and whipped cream are always nice, if you think you’ll need anything else. And cheese straws make for a bite of something savory. But simplicity is always best…