Based on the British romance novel by Ian McEwan, Atonement is an excellent adaptation. The movie deals far more with war than the book, which is not to my taste. However, for some this will be a positive.

Cecilia Tallis (Knightley) is the eldest daughter of a rich British family. She falls in love with Robbie Turner (McAvoy), the housekeeper's son, and with the help of her younger sister Briony (Ronan, Garai) much tragedy ensues. Having been described by Roger Ebert as beginning on joyous gossamer wings, but then descending into an abyss of tragedy and loss, Atonement is not a typical tragic romance.

One lie told by Briony after a misunderstanding leaves their three young lives irreversibly damaged. It is not until the end of the movie that you truly see just how much damage has been done.

The heartrending plot is accompanied perfectly by the romantic, kinetic score, and amazing performances from Knightley and McAvoy leave you wanting more. However, there isn't more, and you walk away with burning questions about betrayal and what atonement might really mean.

One of the best films of the Film Group programme this semester, very emotionally powerful. Remember to bring the tissues!

The mysterious Sir Walter Raleigh (Owen) has returned from the New World and catches the eye of Queen Elizabeth (Blanchett). Elizabeth is still privately arguing with her Privy Council about the need to marry and produce an heir, whilst publicly courting all of Europe's eligible suitors in an elaborate political game. Raleigh captures her personal interest, becoming a close confidante and potential lover.

Raleigh courts Elizabeth's interest for personal gain and a burgeoning friendship, but is also attracted to one of her ladies-in-waiting, Bess Throckmorton (Abbie Cornish). A love triangle emerges, as each participant wars between attraction and duty. Set against a background of worsening diplomatic ties with Spain and Catholic Europe, the story culminates in the Spanish Armada's attack on English sovereignty.

The Golden Age is the sequel to Kapur's 1998 breakthrough film Elizabeth. The Golden Age sacrifices historical accuracy to create an epic story covering an important period in Elizabeth's reign. The movie is visually lavish, with sweeping cinematography and stunning costumes. Blanchett, Owen and Cornish are superb in their characterisation. At the time of writing Blanchett had already been nominated for Best Actress by the Screen Actors Guild and the Golden Globes, so expect Oscar nominations. In the end, The Golden Age is a fascinating interpretation of love, politics and war in Elizabethan England.