MOLL FLANDERS

CAPSULE REVIEW –– I generally love historical pictures because it's interesting to experience the world from a different perspective. In the case of MOLL FLANDERS, it is makes me glad I wasn't born in 17th Century England. Robin Wright does an impressive job as the constantly beleaguered title character who is just looking for a better life. Abused as a child and forced into prostitution to survive, Moll's life is anything but a bed of roses, yet she continues to have hope that it will work out in the end. A brief turn with love, sets her on the path to marriage and motherhood, but it seems happiness just isn't meant to be. In the end, Moll's refusal to give up on her dreams wins her the reward she so justly deserves. This is a dark, dark tale made enjoyable by the performances of Wright, Freeman and Channing. It's probably one of the truest looks at life during this time and that's a scary thing. Life was hard for women, disease was rampant and poverty the norm. Though it has it's slow moments, Moll's indomitable spirit infuses this film with a light that refuses to be ignored. That it work's out in the end, is somewhat unbelievable, but also a relief after all she's been through. Moll deserves something better and this film delivers her story in a powerful and entertaining way.