The film has difficulty rising above a rather depressing presentation, especially considering the supporting players, with the exception of some engaging moments featuring Sir Michael Gambon as the clever but somewhat underhanded Foreign Secretary Lord Edward Fox. It’s likely not improved by the fact that much of the story unfolds in a damp and somber 19th century England, but Ioan Gruffudd's portrayal of the aboliti…

The editing feels somewhat confusing, which makes it difficult to track the shifts in timeline. Aside from that, both the writing and cinematography are well-done, and the actors perform admirably.