Bloomsbury fluff

As a diorama of the English countryside and early 20th century clothing, Howard's End is second to none - as an engaging piece of filmmaking, not so much. The themes involve, as much as they are any, are so stiff, still and understated, that the film appears more an excuse for playing dress-up than anything else. Add to this a few rare glimmers of dialog, a couple of cars rides, and a row boat; and we have what one's slow-witted aunt might put forward as an acceptable bit of English drawing room drama.

To give it it's due, compared to the book it's based on, this movie is an action packed thriller - but other than the magnificent furniture and fabulous woman's hats, this film was 142 minutes of the purest Bloomsbury fluff and feathers.