This is a diamond of a movie -- a diamond with an inclusion, but a diamond nonetheless. As the shallow court doctor, Robert Downey Jr's performance makes one cry for the habits that have kept him away from so many productions.
This medical rogue, because of fluky fame, is summoned to King Charles II's court to save a beloved dog. When the dog recovers without any explanation, Downey's doctor is the star of the moment but his moment passes quickly.
Sam Neil is one of filmdom's most convincing Charles II -- the merry monarch. He can be superficial and deep, a coward and hero all at the same turn. David Thewliss is also convincing as a Quaker doctor who helps lead Downey's character away from the excess of the royal court.
Now, here's the inclusion part. Meg Ryan plays a psychiatric patient that Downey's character seems to cure in a manner not recommended by most Colleges of Physicians. Ryan is not right for the part.
All else -- costumes, cinematography, music are wonderful. A sweeping film about fate and redemption during one of England's most dynamic reigns, Restoration is worth getting as a DVD because it really does improve with more than one viewing.
This medical rogue, because of fluky fame, is summoned to King Charles II's court to save a beloved dog. When the dog recovers without any explanation, Downey's doctor is the star of the moment but his moment passes quickly.
Sam Neil is one of filmdom's most convincing Charles II -- the merry monarch. He can be superficial and deep, a coward and hero all at the same turn. David Thewliss is also convincing as a Quaker doctor who helps lead Downey's character away from the excess of the royal court.
Now, here's the inclusion part. Meg Ryan plays a psychiatric patient that Downey's character seems to cure in a manner not recommended by most Colleges of Physicians. Ryan is not right for the part.
All else -- costumes, cinematography, music are wonderful. A sweeping film about fate and redemption during one of England's most dynamic reigns, Restoration is worth getting as a DVD because it really does improve with more than one viewing.