Sony Pictures Classics | Release Date: July 31, 1998 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
60
METASCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 25 Critic Reviews
Positive:
17
Mixed:
5
Negative:
3
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80
Sandra Goldbacher's gorgeous debut feature (shot by Ashley Rowe) stars Minnie Driver in a lovely performance as Rosina da Silva. [31 Jul 1998]
75
The film, despite some over-obvious stretches, is mostly sad, lovely, moving, haunting. It's a striking and promising debut from a fine new filmmaker. [21 Aug 1998]
75
Once again, then, impeccable visual detail and uniformly strong performances combine to create a polished, if slightly airless, result. [14 Aug 1998]
75
Though not exactly dynamic, the movie offers insights into a specific culture. Ashley Rowe's photography is exquisite, and Driver has never been better. [14 Aug 1998]
75
Portland OregonianBob Hicks
Its an intriguing reimagining of a period that was moving rapidly. [21 Aug 1998]
63
Though Driver's offbeat beauty and Wilkinson's weathered visage make for an unlikely pairing, it works because their passion wells from something deeper than physical apperance. [31 Jul 1998]
50
The sheer intelligence and independence of spirit in Driver's busy eyes almost carry The Governess past its structural limitations. [07 Aug 1998]
20
The Governess is too dirty-minded to fit the Merchant Ivory mold but not salacious enough to qualify as bodice-ripping laff riot. [04 Aug 1998]
10
The slogging melodrama that emerged still more closely resembles the daily musings of an infatuated teenager than a well-crafted, thoughtful story. [14 Aug 1998]