MY COUSIN RACHEL

Cert Running time

Cornish cousins are caught kissing in this period potboiler of poison, property and passion.

This Gothic murder mystery melodrama is a hugely enjoyable adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s 1951 novel. Poor sound quality marred the BBC’s version of her book Jamaica Inn, but this is excellent in every department.

Actor Sam Claflin has matured into an engaging leading man and is on top form as Philip.

Having inherited a large estate, the young man becomes besotted with his recently widowed cousin, Rachel.

Rachel Weisz plays a brilliant guessing game with the audience as a beautiful older woman of questionable morals, uncertain motives and no income.

We’re teased as to whether she’s a permissive sophisticate on the make, or a proud woman frustrated at her financial dependence on men who are inferior in brains, charm and experience.

A strong supporting cast is headed by Holliday Grainger who quietly steals her scenes as Louise. Plus the earthy design complements the breathtaking coastline in what is easily the best film of the week.