Hilary and Jackie Movie Review 1998

Based on the true story of cover girl cellist Jacqueline Du Pre (Watson) and her relationship with her sister Hilary (Griffiths). As Jackie takes the world of classical music by storm, Hilary gives up her musical ambitions and marries conductor Kiffer (Morrissey). The story switches perspectives between the two women after Jackie arrives at Hilary's doorstep and asks if she may sleep with her husband. Hilary reluctantly agrees, and there go all those stereotypes you had about girls who play classical music. The second half details Jackie's decline and eventual death from multiple sclerosis and the sisters' mutual bonds developed during her illness. Excellent performances and music, including some actual Du Pre performances, make this a pleaser for those who liked "Shine."

Distribution

USA Home Entertainment, 1 W. Forest, Englewood, NJ 07631-4004, Phone: (201)871-1000, URL: http://www.polygram-us.com

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 124 minutes.
Originally from British.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Brothers & Sisters, Disease of the Week, Biopics: Musicians, Marriage, True Stories, Romantic Triangles, Female Bonding, Sibling Rivalry

Screenplay

Frank Cottrell-Boyce

Cast

Emily Watson, Rachel Griffiths, James Frain, David Morrissey, Charles Dance, Celia Imrie, Rupert Penry-Jones, Nyree Dawn Porter, Bill Paterson, Vernon Dobtcheff, Auriol Evans, Keeley Flanders

Cinematography

David C(lark) Johnson

Director

Anand Tucker

Music

Barrington Pheloung

Producer

Guy East, Nigel Sinclair, Ruth Jackson, Intermedia Films, Film Four International, Oxford Films, October Films