The Governess

Synopsis

In the 19th-century England, Rosina da Silva, a Sephardic Jew, takes on the identity of Mary Blackchurch to work as a governess for the Cavendish family. As she becomes entangled in a forbidden love affair with Mr. Cavendish, her passion and intellectual pursuits clash with societal norms and the expectations of her employers. The Governess explores themes of identity, desire, and the struggle for independence in a patriarchal society, as Rosina navigates the complexities of maintaining her facade while exploring her own artistic talents and rediscovering her Jewish heritage.

Cast

• 

  Minnie Driver

  Rosina da Silva

• 

  Tom Wilkinson

  Mr. Charles Cavendish

• 

  Harriet Walter

  Mrs. Cavendish

• 

  Jonathan Rhys Meyers

  Henry Cavendish

• 

  Florence Hoath

  Clementina Cavendish

• Arlene Cockburn

  Lily Milk, the Maid

Reviews

The Governess directed by Sandra Goldbacher received a diverse range of reviews from critics. While some appreciated the film's lush cinematography and Minnie Driver's captivating performance, others found the plot lacking in depth. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a 65% rating, praising Driver's portrayal of Rosina but critiquing the pacing of the storyline. IMDb rated The Governess at 6.2/10, with viewers appreciating the film's historical setting and intricate character development. Metacritic gave the movie a score of 60/100, noting the film's ambitious themes and visually stunning production design. Overall, The Governess offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity and desire amidst societal constraints.