I feel I must start this review with the caveat that I am not a fan of the Anne books and I find that Sullivan's films do a fine job of expressing the sentiment of the books and capturing their lively characters while escaping their outdated, flowery prose. The Continuting Story has a startling impact on viewers who loved Anne, Gilbert, and the many other familiar faces of Avonlea in the first two films by placing these characters in harm's way. Sullivan shakes the gentle world of Avonlea with the spectre of WWI in a manner that expertly mirrors the real experiences of Islanders during that terrible conflict. He deepens his exploration of Anne and Gilbert's relationship and demonstrates how their love and commitment can transcend the devastation and despair of the battlefields of France. This is a mature, impactful film that radiates respect for the experience of WWI troops and their loved ones at home. I respect fans' of the books sadness at the disconnect between this film and the literature. But as a film, considered independently from the books, The Continuing Story is truly wonderful to watch.
A beautiful film that gets to the heart of PEIs First World War experience
8 July 2011
Warning: Spoilers