The main reason for watching this costume piece set at the end of the 17th century is the top-notch cast. Young Dutch landscape architect Ewan McGregor is employed by proud, wealthy landowner Pete Postlethwaite (he made his money in the foundry business, so he's no aristo) to create a stunningly beautiful garden in honour of his wife (Greta Scacchi). But of course things become far more complicated than that, thanks to the machinations of the wife's foppish cousin Richard E Grant (in the sort of role he does brilliantly). Respected cinematographer Philippe Rousselot makes his directorial debut here, but he doesn't manage to build up quite the level of intrigue and mystery that the film needs - not helped, it has to be said, by the somewhat rambling storyline. Still, the clothes are elegant and the acting well up to par in this pleasant time passer.

©ipc tx. Film content from TVTimes