Watch A Director's Perspective

As a director, James Ivory has a reputation for bringing literary classics to the big screen. In 1987, he added another masterpiece to his collection with the film adaptation of E.M. Forster's novel, Maurice. The movie tells the story of a young man's struggle to come to terms with his homosexuality in the repressive society of early 20th century England.

Set against the backdrop of Edwardian England, Maurice follows the titular character as he navigates the rigid social norms of the time. He meets and falls in love with Clive Durham, a fellow Cambridge student who shares his intellectual and artistic pursuits. As they explore their feelings for each other, however, they realize the danger of their desires in the conservative society they live in.

The film is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant portrait of love, desire, and social repression. From the stunning English countryside to the cramped quarters of the Cambridge dorms, every detail is carefully crafted to evoke the mood of the time and place.

The performances are exceptional, from James Wilby's portrayal of the conflicted Maurice to Hugh Grant's turn as the charismatic and ultimately cowardly Clive. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their eventual separation all the more heartbreaking.

But the heart of the film lies in its themes. Ivory doesn't shy away from the pain and isolation that comes with being different in a world that values conformity above all else. Instead, he explores these feelings with sensitivity and nuance, painting a portrait of a society that is both beautiful and cruel.

At its core, Maurice is a celebration of the human spirit's ability to love and endure in the face of adversity. It's a testament to the power of literature and film to create empathy and understanding between people from all walks of life. And it's a landmark in queer cinema, paving the way for a new wave of stories and storytellers to emerge.

Overall, Maurice is a masterpiece of period drama and queer cinema. It's a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, reminding us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition. And it's a testament to James Ivory's skill as a director and storyteller that this story remains as relevant and compelling as it did over 30 years ago.

A Director's Perspective is a 2017 non-fiction movie with a runtime of 40 minutes.