William Nicholson's 'Firelight' is a visual feast. It's not high-tech special effects, extravagant sets or costumes or the scenic flowery locations that create the visual beauty but rather the simplicity of it that is beautifully captured by the camera. It is the subtlety and gentle treatment that creates an atmosphere that is cold or warm. Notice though in the scenes where the temperature is supposed to be freezing, there is a coldness between the characters but the scenes with the firelight reflect a warmth in the characters. The story itself is pretty simple. There is hardly any 'main' conflict that drives the story. Any plot device that is presented is almost immediately resolved like Elisabeth getting Louisa to study, Charles giving Elisabeth a one-month notice and then falling for her. The movie moves at a rapid pace but Nicholson has handled the sequences quite well because none of it looks rushed. The love scenes were tastefully shot.The acting is excellent. An incredibly beautiful Sophie Marceau does a phenomenal job. Stephan Dillane too does an equally convincing job. The supporting cast is good too.'Firelight' is not without its share of loopholes. For example, considering that the film is set in the 1800s, how did they manage to maintain a comatose patient so well in seemingly such good health? Regarding the death sequence, why was such a cruel form of euthanasia, by having the victim freeze to death, chosen? The happy ending also feels a bit awkward but that may be because one would normally expect a tragic solution.In short, 'Firelight' is a worthy film because of its visual and poetic beauty. I am very picky about romantic films and loath movies such as 'Titanic' but if the movie has something more than pretty props to offer, something that is both visually enticing and lyrical then I am ready to give it my time.

Just by chance, I selected this film at a time of night when I'm ready for sleep. I watched it once.... then, again but fell asleep thru part of it. Two days later, I watched it again (wide awake this time) and that's when I fell in love with it. The first time.... I admit, it was the titillating story... the child was secondary. The second time.... I wanted to watch Sophie Marceau's delivery of her character. The third time.... I realized that Stephen Dillane's delivery of his character was so nuanced, I missed it the first 2 times. He is what makes this story so wonderful.Because I am a big fan of British film, I wondered why I was not familiar with Stephen Dillane's name. After some research, I found that I have seen him in some character roles, but nowhere is he as handsome as in this film. Sophie Marceau is so accomplished that together, some of their scenes unfold as a dance.This film is so delicate, with exquisite timing and phrases, that I can truly say it is as well-done as Campion's The Piano. Elisabeth's shout when she opens the doors to the lake. Godwin's face from recognition to omigod to sweet smile when he sees Elisabeth again. Godwin's explanation that a month with Elisabeth in the house would be an eternity. Their dance at the door when Louisa is screaming to be let out. And many more.If you love stories of heart-felt deep love, this is it. Just be sure to watch it closely and more than once.

I woke up to the movie at 7:00 am and was pleasantly surprised. I was captivated by the story. I like historical romance stories. I normally don't seek out movies like historical romance stories. The characters were memorable and left me wanting more. Unfortually I missed the beginning but was captivated by the story and the characters. Trying to watch it again but can't find it on cable or what channel it is on. I have search on cable on demand for the channel encore but can't find it. Any information you could give would be great. thanks...

WOW! I just saw this movie on TV and I have to say it was one of the best movies I have seen in forever. I am a movie fanatic, especially when it comes to period romances, and this was definitely one of those. Stephen Dillane and Sophie Marceau where perfect in this movie. I was supposed to be doing my schoolwork and getting ready to go to the funeral home, but I couldn't leave this movie. SPOILER: I was literally on the edge of my seat with Louisa walked over the frozen lake. I held my breath and hoped everything would be alright.I can't wait to watch this movie again. I have every intention of buying it if I can find it. Amazing. 10 stars. Don't pass this one up.