It’s difficult to say exactly what "Flora" (played by Kate Beckinsale) anticipated upon reaching her family's rural home, as depicted in the story. Farmhouses often appear charming, but crossing the threshold here felt like traveling backward through history. The characters seem plucked from a Charles Dickens novel, and director John Schlesinger guides us through the lives—and romantic entanglements—of this group with a darkly comedic touch. “Could someone check my curtains?” she asks, "I believe they're red, but I’d appreciate confirmation.” She has only £100 annually, which is substantial for people whose existence revolves around poultry and farm work. Naturally, there are romantic complications as well; her wealthy relative, "Charles" (Christopher Bowen), develops feelings for her that aren't returned, while she finds herself drawn to the troubled “Starkadder” (Eileen Atkins), all under the control of the enigmatic “Aunt Ada” (Sheila Burrell, who dominates every scene). This is a world where appearances are deceptive and nothing is simple; any book "Flora" might write later will certainly be full of vivid details. The narrative itself is pleasantly diverting, but it’s truly the exceptional cast that elevates this production. Freddie Jones, Miriam Margolyes with her distinctive expressions, Stephen Fry, Sir Ian McKellen, and Joanna Lumley (who I don't consider to be a particularly adaptable performer) all contribute to this story of surprising contradictions between those who are openly crude and those who strive for propriety. The film is visually appealing, moves at a good pace, and demonstrates what’s possible when everyone embraces a bit of playful chaos.

Source on TMDB