Ethan Frome (1992) Reviews

Ethan Frome (1992)
Member Rating:  
Ethan Frome is an adaptation of Edith Wharton's 1911 novella . Set in Massachusetts in the late-19th century, the film relates the sad story of reclusive farmer Ethan Frome (Liam Neeson). Considering himself too homely for romance, he enters into a loveless marriage with the wealthy but spiteful Zeena (Joan Allen). Things become nearly unendurable when Zeena becomes an invalid, imperiously demanding her husband's attentions day and night. Ethan seeks solace in an affair with Zeena's pretty cousin Mattie Silver (Patricia Arquette), who has arrived to act as housekeeper. Produced on behalf of PBS' American Playhouse, Ethan Frome was released theatrically in late 1992. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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Starring:
Liam NeesonPatricia Arquette, (more)
Director(s):
John Madden
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG
Format(s):
DVD
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Average Ratings

(13 member reviews)  


Member Reviews


Brenda W.

As an assignment for English Reading, this movie stuck very close to the book. It was a VERY good visual learning tool for me. I read the book first, but one could see the movie first and then read the book. DO read the book to get the full impact of what I consider to be the center of the story: choices we make and how they impact our own lives as well as the lives of those around us.

Yes   |   No


David L.

Ethan Frome is the most poignant, beautiful, tragic story I've ever read, and is by far Edith Wharton's best work. This film butchered it. It worked against the book in soooo many poorly-chosen ways. There are vital factors in the story that have been unwisely ommitted and other ridiculous additions to the plotline that were nowhere in the book. And overall, the profundity of emotion and tension, and the visceral visual beauty of Whatron's masterpiece were not conveyed as they should have been.

Yes   |   No


Ann C.

Okay movie adaption of the book. Seems to leave a lot of information out of what happened in their lives. Great cast--Neeson is wonderful! The ending shocks you because you didn't get enough story line.

Yes   |   No


Cathryn B.

Liked the movie, but not the characters. I've read the book, seen a stage adaptation and watched this. In all cases, I have to say that while the story is sad, the characters all are getting pretty much what they deserve. It's a good demonstration of the simple fact that major life choices should not be entered into lightly. The consequences can follow you all the days of your life-however long that may be. The actors did a great job in this movie. I'm just not terribly sympathetic with their plights.

Yes   |   No


Ann C.

I was curious to revisit this movie, which I saw back in 1992. It had provided my first glimpse of Liam Neeson, and I remember being mesmerized by him. The long-term result is that I have hardly ever missed seeing his movies. As Ethan Frome, he was both passionate and vulnerable. I still feel the same way, viewing the film again, 2 decades later.

Yes   |   No


Adele S.

Even though its a very sad sad story, I've found that this version of Ethan Frome is very well acted by Liam Neeson, Joan Allen and Patricia Arquette, who was surprisingly good in her role. Poor Ethan... It sure didn't get a fair break in his life at all! Neither did the women who had the misfortune to share in his life.

Yes   |   No


Betty C.

A great cast but the story was too grim for me. I am a happy ending kind of person and it was pretty bleak to me. I can see why some might enjoy this story though.

Yes   |   No


Mazen G.

good

Yes   |   No


Mary H.

Not spectacular, but worth watching.

Yes   |   No


Lynda S.

Worst watching

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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    Member Reviews
     
    Brenda W.

    As an assignment for English Reading, this movie stuck very close to the book. It was a VERY good visual learning tool for me. I read the book first, but one could see the movie first and then read the book. DO read the book to get the full impact of what I consider to be the center of the story: choices we make and how they impact our own lives as well as the lives of those around us.

    Yes   |   No

     
    David L.

    Ethan Frome is the most poignant, beautiful, tragic story I've ever read, and is by far Edith Wharton's best work. This film butchered it. It worked against the book in soooo many poorly-chosen ways. There are vital factors in the story that have been unwisely ommitted and other ridiculous additions to the plotline that were nowhere in the book. And overall, the profundity of emotion and tension, and the visceral visual beauty of Whatron's masterpiece were not conveyed as they should have been.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Ann C.

    Okay movie adaption of the book. Seems to leave a lot of information out of what happened in their lives. Great cast--Neeson is wonderful! The ending shocks you because you didn't get enough story line.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Read All 13 Reviews