NETFLIX IT: The Winslow Boy (2009)

Editor's Note: Netflix It is a feature meant to draw attention to older films some readers might have missed, and might consider either adding to their Netflix queue, or renting at their local DVD store. The following review of "The Winslow Boy," never published here before, is the original 1999 review.



On the surface, David Mamet’s new film, “The Winslow Boy,” is about justice. British justice. But beneath it all, Mamet has other things in mind, such as a film about passion. British passion.

Set in 1910, the film follows Ronnie Winslow (Guy Edwards), a young naval cadet accused of stealing a five-shilling postal order from a classmate. Convinced he’s innocent, Ronnie’s father (Nigel Hawthorne) stakes the family fortune (not to mention the family’s psychological health) on the famous lawyer Sir Robert Norton (Jeremy Northam), who once fought for Oscar Wilde and who now uses his genius to save Ronnie in court.

What makes “The Winslow Boy” a must see is how Mamet takes a conventional courtroom drama and twists it so most of the courtroom action happens off screen--including the ruling, which is handled superbly.

But this film isn’t just about the plight of poor Ronnie. Far from it. It’s also about getting his older sister, Catherine (Mamet’s wife Rebecca Pidgeon), paired with an intellectual equal. That equal is Sir Robert, who ignites in Catherine a passion that isn’t exactly hot, but rather clinical.

Based on a true story, “The Winslow Boy” is a departure for Mamet, who is known for his in-your-face characters and spare, tough dialogue. Those qualities are in evidence here, but they’ve been toned down to reflect the times. Indeed, Catherine and Robert are so cold and so aloof, so pretty and so uptight, their courtship plays out like a game of chess.

But which one is the Queen?

Grade: A-