As 2009 draws to a close, I was reflecting on my highlights of the past year in period films. This is after all, my 'alternate universe', and I take comfort knowing that I'm not the only one who loves this genre. Thank you to all the people who I've met through our shared interest in costume dramas for sharing your comments and friendship! I might not be able to find people in my own backyard who are fanatics of period movies but it certainly reminds me that we live in a global village when the internet allows us to connect with each other even though we may live in different cities or countries! I'm grateful for the knowledge that you're out there!
I was looking back to see which films came out this year and surprised that out of 40 that I could think of, I'd seen only a handful. According to the poll of Period Movies of 2009, I'm not the only one who hasn't yet had a chance to watch most of these, some of which are recent releases. Besides the dramas that came out in 2009, there are plenty more on the way! I honestly am overwhelmed by the number of period films in production when I thought there were only a few put out each year. I keep adding to the list of Upcoming Films as I hear about them (currently there's over a 100 productions that have been mentioned) with Pillars of the Earth, Alice in Wonderland, and The King's Speech being some of the most anticipated ones!

Claire Foy deserved to be recognized,
Matthew Macfadyen -impeccable as always

Laura Linney and Stephen Dillane stole the show.
I loved learning more about American history.
with Rupert Penry-Jones and Lydia Leonard
Discovered just how prolific an artist Winterhalter was as he painted portraits
for many of the royal families of Europe including many of Queen Victoria.
I also learned more about Dicksee, Leighton, and others!

So glad to have discovered this one, very moving!

A sweet gem of a movie!

One of my new favourite musical soundtracks!
Based on Victor Hugo's Hunchback of Notre Dame

Love the talents of Marla Schaffel and James Stacy Barbour
One of the bright stars of my year!
Captivating and moving!!
Discovered just how many costumes are re-used and show up in another drama.
Thanks to those with a sharp eye for spotting them!

This movie came out in 2007 but I just saw it this year.
Cate Blanchett, captivating as always, wonderful film!

Yep, enchanted I was! Amy Adams is delightful!

Amusing tale with Jim Broadbent, Hugh Laurie and Bill Nighy.
Fun and inspiring! Meryl Streep and Amy Adams together!

The movie has always been fun but the book was a great read!
Romola Garai & Johnny Lee Miller provided us with another telling of Jane Austen's novel. Beautifully filmed but my fave is still with Gwyneth Paltrow & Jeremy Northam.
We get to revisit the residents of Cranford with the addition of veterans
Celia Imrie and Jonathon Pryce making it worthwhile.
Harry Gregson and Miss Galindo are back so we hear more of their story.

Carey Mulligan has definitely received notice for this role
and although her character makes some unwise moral choices, I was charmed by it!

Sadly, we lost an awesome actress this year as Natasha died in a fall while skiing.
My heart goes out to her husband Liam Neeson and her family.

fave movie of the year, enough said!
Happy New Year everyone!
Wishing you health and happiness!