Atonement (2007) - ★★★★★

Director: Joe Wright
Writers: Ian McEwan (novel), Christopher Hampton (screenplay)
Stars: James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Saoirse Ronan, Romola Garai, Juno Temple, Benedict Cumberbatch

Atonement is one of the most exquisite films I've ever seen. Its style and beauty is reminiscent of classic cinematic masterpieces, such as Gone With the Wind (1939) and Days of Heaven (1978). Yet it has a unique modern element that puts it in a league of its own. Seamus McGarvey's masterful cinematography deserves to be hailed as one of the greatest in cinematic history, whilst the haunting score by Dario Marianelli takes us to an unforgettable time in history, and heightens all the emotion that comes with the story and surroundings. Technically, Atonement is truly perfect. As for the story, performances, and overall effect the movie had on me personally, I say that it was equally as perfect.

Adore (2013) - ★★★★½

Director: Anne Fontaine
Writers: Doris Lessing (novel), Christopher Hampton (screenplay), Anne Fontaine (adaptation)
Stars: Naomi Watts, Robin Wright, Xavier Samuel, James Frecheville, Ben Mendelsohn, Sophie Lowe, Jessica Tovey, Gary Sweet

At the risk of sounding silly, I’m just going to say it. I ADORE Adore. It has one of the most out there, taboo stories I’ve ever come across in cinema. That’s not what makes it an unforgettable cinematic treasure. The way it illuminates the characters, with grace, sensitivity, and understanding, is what makes it so damn beautiful. The cinematography is unbelievably beautiful, the storytelling is both sympathetic and moving, but above all, the performances left me speechless. It’s one of the greatest films to ever come out of Australia, and one of the best films of 2013.