If you haven't read the book, I suggest you do, it is amazing and left me reeling when finished. Is the film as good? Not quite. On its own merits though, I think it is good. Albeit it isn't a movie for all. Some of the movie does rely too much on shock value and I found some bits rather hard to watch, granted the book did have some hard hitting parts but it never felt like too much. Also the film does feel a little laborious in pace in the middle, and Thandie Newton's performance for my liking is over-cooked. However, Oprah Winfrey's lead performance is achingly poignant and Danny Glover gives her great support. Beloved is well directed, looks beautiful, has an overall evocative story that has something to say and has a good score and worthy script. In conclusion, not for all but I liked it. For the full emotional punch though, go for the book. 7/10 Bethany Cox
Review of Beloved
