Cinema Scholars reviews the new Regency Era romance Mr. Malcolm’s List. Directed by Emma Holly Jones, the film stars Freida Pinto, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, Zawe Ashton, and Theo James. Bleecker Street will release Mr. Malcolm’s List wide in theaters on July 1, 2022.
Introduction
One of the great tricks in cinema is the ability of filmmakers to bring the past back to life via the tried and true period piece. Whether it’s medieval times, the Old West, or even beloved eras of the past century, storytelling that lovingly depicts a bygone era never seems to go out of style. A particularly tenacious stalwart in this department is the romance and intrigue of England’s Regency era.
Though it seems the genre couldn’t possibly have more to offer, images of idyllic countrysides, empire-waisted gowns, and old-time etiquette nevertheless find their way onto the big screen year after year. Mr. Malcolm’s List, one of the latest entries in the “corsets and crumpets” sub-genre, keeps the romantic period piece tradition alive and well.
Synopsis
Julia is a young London socialite entering her fourth “season.” This is the yearly barrage of events and balls where the city’s most eligible endeavor to make a love connection. For the ladies, however, a few seasons without success almost always means the inevitable life of an old maid. Being courted by the mysterious Mr. Jeremy Malcolm is Julia’s final chance at happily ever after. When her suitor fails to call again on the lovable but vapid young woman, Julia’s heart and prospects are shattered.
In an unexpected twist of fate, Julia learns that Mr. Malcolm has a checklist of criteria for any woman who would be his bride. Enraged by this discovery, Julia plots to have her old schoolmate, Selina, woo Mr. Malcolm with the help of the newfound list. Then Selina is to break his heart in retribution for enacting such ridiculous standards. As in most great romances, however, Julia’s scheme proves to be much more problematic than she or her pawns could imagine.
Discussion
There’s no question that Mr. Malcolm’s List is a consummate romance through and through. From the gorgeous sweeping estates, incredible period fashion, and flowery yet clever dialogue, Mr. Malcolm’s List is, well, like a checklist for the genre.
Parasoled strolls through perfectly manicured gardens? Target practice with live pheasants? A game of croquet on the carpet-like lawn? Gossip at the horse auction? Check, check, and checkity-check. Moreover, Mr. Malcolm’s List even features an obligatory Pygmalion-Esque makeover of Selina for her to master the criteria on the offending directive. Yes, Mr. Malcolm’s List follows the frilly period piece formula to the letter. The result is nothing shy of delightful.
Additionally, just when you think that such old-school courting won’t translate in a post-millennial landscape, Mr. Malcolm’s List clears the air early on by calling out and dismissing the inherent misogyny in such a tale.
Casting
Clever delivery by the performers keeps Mr. Malcolm’s List current. This is despite the fact that they are playing it completely by the book. There’s no wink or nudge to the period. Based on the 2009 novel by Suzanne Alain, Mr. Malcolm’s List is as true to the genre as any classic. If there were any nod to an updated take in this adaptation, it would lie with the refreshing casting. With the success of Bridgerton and other productions that embrace diversity in an ensemble, Mr. Malcolm’s List provides another opportunity for actors who might not otherwise have the opportunity to strut their old English stuff.
Some may chafe at reimagining a more inclusive past. However, this trend enables a fresh palate for performers who are typically pigeonholed. Cheers to new and better opportunities for actors of every ethnicity. If you don’t like it, don’t watch it. Yet be warned, you are missing some incredible performances while biting off your nose.
Performances
Speaking of those performances, what a delight to see Freida Pinto shine in such a wonderfully realized character. While usually relegated to girlfriend or wife roles, Pinto takes on a much-deserved lead as the witty Selina. Her deft delivery of the tongue-tripping 1800s speak along with the “fish out of water” demeanor makes her character especially endearing.
With such a charming leading lady, it’s only befitting that the leading man’s charisma should match. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù embodies the perfect combination of debonair suave and surprise romantic smite. When he finally realizes the error in his ways, Dìrísù’s remorse nicely reveals his character’s imperfection.
Additionally, noteworthy supporting performances by Zawe Ashton as Julia and Theo James as Captain Ossory help maintain a playfulness in the film that might otherwise get lost in the pomp and circumstance. For instance, other sidekicks may offer only a superficial respite from the main plot. However, Julia and Captain Ossory’s sub-narrative beautifully enhances and even elevates the main plot line. A feat no doubt accomplished in big part to their delightful dynamic.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a Regency Romance that breaks the cherished mold, Mr. Malcolm’s List, unfortunately, doesn’t fit that bill. However, if another fluffy story of pride and pursuit of true love set in the frilly past tickles your fancy, then look no further than the unabashedly contrived Mr. Malcolm’s List.
Bleecker Street will release Mr. Malcolm’s List wide in theaters July 1, 2022.
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