Doctor Zhivago is a television movie that stars Hans Matheson,Keira Knightley,Sam Neill and Kris Marshall.The teleplay by Andrew Davies is based on the 1957 novel of the same title by Boris Pasternak.It was directed by Giacomo Campiotti. Doctor Zhivago is the story of the young and beautiful Lara,who is involved with three men: a revolutionary, a mogul, and a doctor. Their lives become intertwined with the drama of Russian revolution when Doctor Zhivago is still married when he meets Lara. Their love story is unfolding against the backdrop of revolution which affects the doctor's career, his family, and his romance with Lara.Doctor Zhivago television movie is a better adaptation of Pasternak's novel as compared to the 1965 film.Also,it was electrifying in its presentation of the ardor of guilt, betrayal, and love.And most of all,it has a first-rate script and vital direction.And most of all,special mention should be given to Keira Knightley for her performance as Lara.

I don't understand why people say that the attraction between Yury and Lara in this version is not as obvious as in the original. The chemistry between them is undeniable, Keira is beautiful and tragic and portrays a real need to be saved which i think would completely appeal to Yury. Alexandra Maria Lara, while pretty, does not possess the same obvious beauty as Keira and i think she does a brilliant job of playing the needy, average housewife. Lara and Yury have a deep connection, which even as they travel along separate paths, still brings them together throughout their lives. The end scene where Yury sees Lara for the last time is incredible. The look in Hans Mathesons eyes as he watches her walk past the window is so poignant that i don't believe anyone watching it could fail to be moved. So magnificent was the acting between these two throughout i had to remind myself at times that they were only actors. Keira is strong and weak all at the same time, she is suitably seduced yet repulsed by victor and i think this is important as she does not just appear as a victim which adds a new dimension to their relationship and almost makes the story slightly more sordid and less pure. The one problem i had as a viewer with the original was that Julie Christie's performance made Lara appear as a innocent victim rather than a strong woman who survives through one of the most turbulent times of Russian history whilst constantly fighting against the manipulative Victor.

everything in this movie is outstanding and exceptional. The play of Hans Matheson and Keira Knightley is much more than good,it is simply perfect. And tell me ... isn't Keira the best actress,she's only 16/17 in this movie and she plays like she was born for this role,and Hans Matheson,i haven't heard of him till yesterday,but now,i'll be looking for his movies because as you saw,he is not just mediocre actor,he is something more ... and he deserves attention. I haven't watched the original Doctor Zhivago and haven't read the book of Boris Pasternak but after i watched the movie,i have no desire to read and watch the originals because this "Doctor Zhivago" has run into my brain so deeply that it can hardly come out of there ...

I completely disagree with the other review on here about this film. This is a remarkable film- it is simply one of the best films I have ever seen. I haven't however, seen the original and when re-makes are done they are inevitably compared to the original. However, even when I do get round to watching the original I know it cannot detract from the brilliance of this version! The performances are absolutely superb all round especially from the two leads (including Kiera Knightly who excels herself in this film I'm not usually too much of a fan of her acting). A truly amazing performance comes from Kris Marshall who plays Strelnikof/ Pasha Antipof- I am in love with this man!! I am now forever a fan. The film is thought-provoking, harrowing and heart-warming in equal measure. Watch this film!