Devotion

Synopsis

Devotion is a 1946 romantic drama that chronicles the lives and loves of the Brontë sisters, focusing on their struggles, aspirations, and the turbulent relationships that inspired some of literature’s most enduring classics. The film stars Ida Lupino as Emily Brontë, showcasing the emotional intensity and inner conflicts that shaped her writing. The narrative intertwines the personal and literary journeys of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë, capturing their loyalty to family and their devotion to artistic expression amidst societal and familial pressures. Rich in period detail and emotional depth, the movie brings a poignant portrayal of sisterhood and creativity.

Cast

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  Ida Lupino

  Emily Brontë

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  Paul Henreid

  Rev. Arthur Nicholls

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  Olivia de Havilland

  Charlotte Brontë

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  Sydney Greenstreet

  William Makepeace Thackeray

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  Nancy Coleman

  Anne Brontë

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  Arthur Kennedy

  Branwell Brontë

Reviews

Critics have given Devotion mixed to positive feedback, acknowledging its earnest performances and period atmosphere while pointing out some limitations in narrative depth. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.6/10, reflecting a moderate audience appreciation that highlights Ida Lupino's compelling portrayal. Rotten Tomatoes does not have enough critical reviews to provide a fresh or rotten score, but user reviews often commend the film for its melodramatic elements and the chemistry between characters. Some reviewers praise the historical depiction of the Brontë family dynamics and the film's romanticized style, while others feel the pacing and script occasionally lack nuance, limiting the emotional impact. Overall, Devotion is considered a respectful, if somewhat conventional, homage to the Brontë sisters’ legacy with particular strength in acting performances and atmospheric direction.