Film enthusiasts and period drama lovers are in for a treat, as BBC Two is set to broadcast the acclaimed cinematic masterpiece, 'The Piano', tonight at midnight.
A Compelling Story of Love and Defiance
The film, which won three Academy Awards in 1993, including the coveted Best Picture, tells the powerful story of Ada McGrath, a mute pianist portrayed by Holly Hunter. Ada arrives in Colonial New Zealand from Scotland with her young daughter, Flora, played by Anna Paquin. They are left on a foreign shore with their belongings, including Ada's beloved piano.
She has been married off to a man she does not love, Alisdair Stewart, a role taken by Sam Neill. Instead, she finds an unexpected and profound connection with George Baines, a local man played by a nearly unrecognisable Harvey Keitel.
Critical Acclaim and Lasting Legacy
Directed by the visionary Jane Campion, the film continues to be hailed as a landmark achievement. It boasts an impressive 90% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its status as a must-watch. Critics consistently praise Campion's exceptional direction, Michael Nyman's sweeping score, and Stuart Dryburgh's gorgeous cinematography, which captures the raw beauty of the New Zealand landscape.
Dann Gire noted that while 'The Piano' is Campion's most accessible work, its unpredictable narrative and spontaneous sensibilities set it apart from conventional love stories.
Audience Reactions and Enduring Themes
Viewers on IMDb have echoed this praise, with one user awarding the film a 9 out of 10. They described it as "dark and beautiful and compelling," highlighting the powerful and sensuous performances of Hunter and Keitel, as well as the complex acting from a young Anna Paquin.
Another long-time fan called it one of their "all-time favourite films," applauding its masterful combination of scripting, cinematography, performances, and musical score. They noted the film's ability to be simultaneously disturbing, erotic, and ultimately uplifting, with Holly Hunter's mute heroine symbolising a woman with no say in her own life.
This late-night broadcast on BBC Two offers a perfect opportunity to experience or rediscover this powerful and award-winning piece of cinema.
