Watch Easy Virtue

Easy Virtue is a charming romantic comedy-drama from 2008, directed by Stephan Elliott, and starring Jessica Biel, Ben Barnes, and Kristin Scott Thomas. The film takes place in the 1920s and tells the story of an American widow, Larita (Biel), who marries a young Englishman, John Whittaker (Barnes), and moves to his family's estate in the British countryside. However, Larita soon discovers that she is not welcomed there, as she is seen as an outsider by the conservative Whittaker family and their high society acquaintances. As a result, Larita must defend herself against their prejudices and prove that she is more than just an easy virtue.

The movie is based on a play by Noël Coward, and its witty dialogues and satirical tone offer an entertaining depiction of the clash between modernity and tradition, as well as the conflict between different social classes. Jessica Biel delivers a stunning performance as Larita, a free-spirited woman who challenges the conventions of her time and refuses to conform to the expectations of her new family. Larita is a feminist character who stands up for herself and fights for her independence, even in the face of adversity. Biel's portrayal of Larita is both charismatic and complex, as she navigates the difficulties of her relationship with John and his family, while also struggling with the ghosts of her own past.

Ben Barnes plays John Whittaker, the young man who falls in love with Larita and brings her to his family's estate. John is a timid and naive character, who is easily influenced by his mother and sisters, and who struggles to find his own voice. Barnes' performance is convincing and heartfelt, as he portrays John's internal conflict and his growing disillusionment with his family's narrow-mindedness. The chemistry between Barnes and Biel is palpable, and their romance is both sweet and unconventional.

Kristin Scott Thomas is also in top form as Mrs. Whittaker, John's overbearing mother, who embodies the conservative values of the British aristocracy. Mrs. Whittaker is a formidable adversary for Larita, as she uses her wit and influence to undermine her daughter-in-law's credibility and protect her family's reputation. Scott Thomas' performance is magnetic, as she imbues her character with a mix of elegance and malice, making Mrs. Whittaker a memorable antagonist.

The supporting cast is also excellent, with Colin Firth stealing scenes as the Whittaker's family friend, Mr. Furze, and Kimberley Nixon and Katherine Parkinson delivering hilarious performances as John's sisters. The film's soundtrack, which features both contemporary and classic songs, adds to its charm and humor, as it juxtaposes old-fashioned manners with modern rhythms.

Overall, Easy Virtue is a delightful movie that offers a fresh spin on the comedy of manners genre. Its engaging characters, witty dialogues, and stylish production design make it a pleasure to watch, while its underlying themes of tolerance and acceptance resonate with contemporary audiences. The film's blend of humor and drama, as well as its talented cast, make it a must-see for fans of romantic comedies and period pieces alike.

Easy Virtue is a 2009 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 58.