A gem of an adaptation of Flaubert’s gem of a novella

This adaptation of Flaubert’s gem of a novella that he wrote for George Sand, A Simple Heart, is heartbreakingly restrained and yet all encompassing at the same time.

The absence of emotion, or more how it is inferred and implied is what makes Flaubert such a great writer, and so powerful in terms of emotion; and Marion Laine’s understanding of this, and execution of it on the screen, makes her direction sublime to watch, and feel.

Also: Sandrine Bonnaire shines, as always.