Lily James, the British actress celebrated for her versatility and timeless elegance, has once again proven her chameleonic prowess. Stepping into the glamorous shoes of a 1950s Hollywood diva in 'Finally Dawn', she channels the power and allure of Egypt's only female pharaoh.
The anticipation was palpable when the first images emerged from Rome's legendary Cinecittà studios, depicting James as Josephine Esperanto, adorned with a striking neme crown. Her dramatic look, replete with thick black eyeliner and a vivid red lip, is reminiscent of the golden era of Hollywood - a time when stars were deified and the silver screen was sacrosanct.
Yet, while the magnetism of her on-screen portrayal is undeniable, the film itself received a lukewarm response at the Venice Film Festival. Critics agreed that James' presence was magnetic, with the Guardian praising her 'opaque hauteur' and Deadline noting her 'Gilda-style glamour.' Such accolades suggest that James has once again showcased an unseen facet of her craft, embracing the ethereal aesthetics of ancient Egypt.
But what's particularly intriguing about 'Finally Dawn' is its narrative layers. It's not merely a film about the 1950s Hollywood; it also captures the intrigue and allure of a film-within-a-film. This intricate storyline sheds light on the naivete of Mimosa, juxtaposed against the predatory nature of the glamorous world she's thrust into. This tension culminates in a hedonistic party scene where James' character presents her new protégé as a 'Swedish poet', blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
The cast further elevates the cinematic experience. James shares screen space with Joe Keery, the 'Stranger Things' sensation, while the iconic Willem Dafoe portrays a savvy art dealer. The ensemble offers a riveting glimpse into a past era, when old Hollywood grappled with the emergence of method acting and a changing cinematic landscape.
Director Saverio Costanzo's creation does elicit polarized responses. While some critics lamented the film's length and questioned the casting of Rebecca Antonaci as Mimosa, others found nuances in its take on the narcissism pervasive in the industry.
Regardless of its critiques, the film serves as a canvas for James' captivating transformation. With the Egyptian-themed look, James reminds audiences of her unwavering commitment to the art and her knack for completely immersing herself in diverse roles. Whether 'Finally Dawn' becomes a classic or a cinematic footnote, Lily James' Egyptian ensemble at the Venice Film Festival will undoubtedly be remembered for its audacity and elegance.