The Beguiled

Stylish filmmaker Sofia Coppola's remake of Don Siegel's lurid 1971 Clint Eastwood Western--based on Thomas P. Cullinan's pulpy 1966 novel—is set in war-ravaged Virginia in 1864. The story begins with wounded Union solder Corporal John McBurney (Colin Farrell) collapsing near Miss Farnsworth's Seminary for Young Ladies, where he's spotted by curious Amy (Oona Laurence) as she is gathering mushrooms in the woods. Since the Civil War's onset, the plantation house inhabitants have not laid eyes on a man. “You are a most unwelcome visitor,” declares matriarchal Miss Martha (Nicole Kidman). Indeed, McBurney's presence immediately ignites a toxic brew of desire and jealousy, particularly between gullibly romantic teacher Edwina (Kirsten Dunst) and saucy teenager Alicia (Elle Fanning). Tackling the vengeful headmistress role originated by Geraldine Page, Kidman slyly embodies simmering, repressed sexuality, and Coppola tastefully captures the muted, candle-lit Southern Gothic atmosphere. A subtle potboiler with an empowering feminist perspective, this is recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include the production featurettes “A Shift in Perspective” (7 min.) and “A Southern Style” (6 min.). Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are bonus DVD, digital, and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a small extras package for this solid remake.] (S. Granger)