Rotten
Engaging if uneven.
Geoff Andrew, Time Out
Restoration
An ordinary man, an irresistible offer. In a world of seduction and power, temptation has its price.
1995 · 1h 57m · R
Drama, Romance
Directed by
Michael Hoffman
Overview
An aspiring young physician, Robert Merivel found himself in the service of King Charles II and saves the life of someone close to the King. Merivel joins the King's court and lives the high life provided to someone of his position. Merivel is ordered to marry his King's mistress in order to divert the queens suspicions. He is given one order by the king and that is not to fall in love. The situation worsens when Merivel finds himself in love with his new wife. Eventually, the King finds out and relieves Merivel of his position and wealth. His fall from grace leaves Merivel where he first started. And through his travels and reunions with an old friend, he rediscovers his love for true medicine and what it really means to be a physician.
Director and cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
69%
Tomatometer
Fresh
Since the robust 17th-century picaresque tale is not enjoying any current vogue, the success of "Restoration" can be considered a very pleasant surprise.
Janet Maslin, New York Times
Rotten
The film is overcome by the rumbling workings of a creaky plot as the story grows more serious.
Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times
Rotten
The movie takes on a somber, fitful atmosphere of straining epic proportions. But it strays into an episodic bog that leaves it gasping for dramatic life.
Peter Stack, San Francisco Chronicle
Fresh
Lively, lavish and grandly acted pageant.
Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
Comments
Talk about the film with other members