The Importance of Being Earnest

A timeless comedy of wit, identity, and social satire.

Watch The Importance of Being Earnest streaming in

No offers found.
We couldn't find any offers for The Importance of Being Earnest streaming in Australia.

Synopsis

"The Importance of Being Earnest" (Как важно быть серьёзным), released in 1976 and featuring Lidiya Sukharevskaya, is a film adaptation of Oscar Wilde's celebrated play. This witty and sharply satirical comedy explores the lives of two young gentlemen who create fictitious personas to escape social obligations and pursue their romantic interests. Set against a backdrop of Victorian society's rigid norms, the story unfolds with clever dialogue, mistaken identities, and humorous critiques of social conventions. The film captures the essence of Wilde's satire, highlighting themes of identity, love, and the absurdities of societal expectations, all delivered through thoughtful performances and a lighthearted narrative tone.

Cast

Reviews

Critically, "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1976) has been appreciated for its faithful adaptation of Oscar Wilde's play and the engaging performances led by Lidiya Sukharevskaya. IMDb users have rated the film at 8.4/10, signaling robust appreciation within cinema enthusiast communities. Reviewers have noted the film's effective translation of Wilde's humor into a cinematic format, with its sharp wit and balanced pacing preserving the spirit of the original work. While some critics felt that the theatrical style remained somewhat stage-bound, limiting cinematic innovation, many praised the production design and period accuracy that enriched the viewing experience. The character portrayals, particularly the nuanced comedic timing, have been highlighted as key strengths. Though the film may appeal more to fans of classic literature and theatrical adaptations than to mainstream audiences, its enduring charm and intellectual humor have earned it recognition among connoisseurs of classic cinema and British wit.