Bright Star (film)

Bright Star is a 2009 BritishFrenchAustralian biographical fiction romantic drama film based on the last three years of the life of poet John Keats and his romantic relationship with Fanny Brawne. It stars Ben Whishaw as Keats and Abbie Cornish as Fanny. It was directed by Jane Campion, who wrote the screenplay inspired by Andrew Motions biography of Keats Motion served as a script consultant on the film. The film was in the main competition at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival, and was first shown to the public onMay 2009. The films title is a reference to a sonnet by Keats titled Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art, which he wrote while he was with Brawne.

Though Fannys flirtatious personality contrasts with Keats notably more aloof nature, she begins to pursue him after she has her siblings, Samuel and Toots, obtain his book of poetry Endymion. Her efforts to interact with the poet are fruitless until he witnesses her grief for the loss of his brother, Tom. While spending Christmas with the Brawne family, Keats begins to open up to Fannys advances. Keats begins to give poetry lessons to Fanny, and it becomes apparent that their attraction is mutual. Fanny is nevertheless troubled by Keats reluctance to pursue her, for which her mother Kerry Fox surmises, Mr Keats knows he cannot like you, he has no living and no income.It is only after Fanny receives a valentine from Brown that Keats passionately confronts them and asks if they are lovers. Brown, who sent the valentine in jest, warns Keats that Fanny is a mere flirt playing a game. Fanny, hurt by Browns accusations and by Keats lack of faith in her, ends their lessons and leaves. It is not until after the Dilkes move to Westminster that spring, leaving the Brawne family their half of the house and six months rent, that Fanny and Keats resume their interaction and fall deeply in love. The relationship comes to an abrupt end when Brown departs with Keats for his summer rental, where Keats may earn some money. Though Fanny is heartbroken, she is comforted by Keats love letters. When the men return in the autumn, Fannys mother voices her concern that Fannys attachment to the poet will hinder her from being courted. Fanny and Keats secretly become engaged. ........

Source: Wikipedia