The Reel Review
This romantic-drama set in 1962 Britain is based on the 2007 novel by Ian McEwan (Atonement), about a couple of young, insecure, and emotionally immature newlyweds (Saoirse Ronan, Billy Howle) facing the daunting prospect of losing their virginity while honeymooning on Chesil Beach.
Ronan (Lady Bird, Atonement and Brooklyn) and Howle (Dunkirk) deliver fine performances and the mood of the more conservative era is well done, but the story is a bit slow and at times even tedious. The poignant ending however, is a powerful reminder of the impact that one single, hastily-made decision made in a moment of anger can have on one’s entire life.