Great Expectations

In this contemporary adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novel, Ethan Hawke gives a "Pip" of a performance as Finn, an impoverished, aspiring artist who, thanks to a mysterious benefactor, becomes the toast of the New York art world. Gwyneth Paltrow costars as the aloof Estelle whom he meets as a child and with whom he shares a memorable kiss over a water fountain. And though, as one character observes, she will only hurt him terribly, he still pursues her (somewhat inexplicably in light of her unsympathetic character and enigmatic behavior). Aside from Hawke and Paltrow, reserve your great expectations for two screen legends who do Dickens proud. Anne Bancroft, made up like Baby Jane, stars as eccentric Nora Dinsmoor (Miss Havisham in the book), who lost her mind after being abandoned at the altar, and now lives in a decrepit mansion (and why any responsible adult would entrust Estelle in this unhinged woman's care is a mystery). Robert De Niro also shines as an escaped convict who menaces the young Finn into helping him escape. A strong optional purchase. (K. Lee Benson)