Bernard and Doris

Bernard and Doris (2006)

A remarkably well told, subtle and moving movie. At first it might seem to about nothing, and the characters are stereotypes. But this is not at all the truth, as both Susan Sarandon and Ralph Fiennes are compelling and complex in their roles.

What finally happens between this butler who might have a drinking problem in his past and this woman who is a bit loose and unafraid of anyone is something neither of them expected. A kind of true love, though not in a normal, intimate way. Even better, really, respecting their different roles all along. Even at the end, when you know them and love them, the dramatic act that starts and then finishes the movie is tender and profound without a bit of sentiment or cheap heart-tugging. Well done!

The fact that this is based on a true story (loosely, they say) doesn't change the honest intimacy implied throughout. It's a quite movie—even as dramas go, it has lots of space and very quiet conversation. That's a strength, to me, but a warning to people looking for something more intense.

Mostly it's the really sincere, remarkable acting by the two leads, who take up almost every minute of screen time. You lose all sense that they are acting. Wonderful stuff. See it if it sounds like it might be your thing. Underrated.

"Bernard and Doris" is a quiet story about a billionairess and her butler brought to life by great actors, a good script and a director that let's them be. Doris Duke inherited millions of tobacco money at a very early age and tried to live a life. Bernard Lafferty was Irish-born, barely literate and simply wanted to do his job -- take care of Doris. He was rewarded, upon her death, with controlling interest in her estate. He died three years later of complications of alcoholism, a disease that plagued him throughout his life. This movie, directed by character actor Bob Balaban and starring Susan Sarandon and Ralph Finnes, is steady and clear in its purpose -- to show us who these people were. Duke was shrewd with her money and philanthropic, too. She gave generously to the arts and education. Her personal life was a mess. She paid for sex with a very young piano player, much to Bernard's displeasure. Rarely do I talk about the soundtrack. It's usually a "heard but not noticed" kind of thing. In "Bernard and Doris" the soundtrack is integral. Wonderful jazz. Bernard worked for Peggy Lee at one point. He knew music and Doris even performed as part of a gospel group. Music was important to this pair. There's even sexual tension here, despite the fact that Bernard was gay. Frankly, that makes it all the more interesting. Finally, there isn't much excitement in "Bernard and Doris." It's all about characters. I found it a joy to watch two of the best actors on the planet become them.

This film is about the mysterious relationship between a wealthy woman, Doris Duke, and her butler.

"Bernard and Doris" is a film that is hard to put a finger on. On one hand, it portrays the mysterious relationship between Bernard and Doris beautifully. What they have is more then just employer and servant, but more like a friend, and even more than just friends. On the other hand, I find a lack of emotional engagement between the story and the viewers. The film and the characters do not make me care about them. Fortunately, Susan Sarandon is amazing as she showcases her acting talent. She is stylishly arrogant at first, assertive but approachable in the middle and frail at the end. "Bernard and Doris" is worth watching just for Susan Sarandon's performance alone. The film would have become quite forgettable without her.

Bob Balaban has made and contributed to an array of interesting films as writer, director and actor. His directorial venture focuses on the relationship of billionairess Doris Duke and her loyal butler Bernard Lafferty. Hugh Costello's writing is solid. The characterization seems accurate enough (at least based on what I've read about Duke and Lafferty). Both are portrayed as strong yet vulnerable humans. Duke did live an unusual life that involved alcohol and casual sex but she enjoyed the freedom of life and travelling. She lived with passion and believed strongly in causes to set up foundations. She was also an excellent businesswoman and loved her plants, especially her orchids. And, this film captures that brilliantly and one can see why a shy Bernard who also shared the same weakness with alcohol would be so taken by a woman like Doris Duke. She can be a difficult woman, especially to those working for her but her appealing sense of liveliness, passion and devotion was admirable and Bernard appreciated that. The tenderness and care in their relationship is portrayed beautifully. Susan Sarandon and Ralph Fiennes are stupendous. Both have effectively captured the essence and strength of their characters delivering strong performances. In addition, the cinematography and art direction are brilliant. Overall, Balaban and Costello have presented an interesting perspective and an intriguing account of a fascinating woman and her relationship with her butler.

This movie was OK. I don't know much about Doris Duke, so I don't know how accurate it was. But what I do know is that I found this HBO movie entertaining and a lot better than a lot of movies that get released in theaters. Susan and Ralph were very good in their roles. The movie shows Doris in her later years. She chases younger men and drinks a lot and moves between all her homes and fabulous vacations. She becomes friends with her butler Bernard. She probably likes the fact he likes to drink too and loves to kiss her @ss. She doesn't even mind when she catches him stealing her boos when she states any help stealing from her will get fired. Her death was controversial as to weather Bernard played a role in it and if he had anything to do with her will changing. He got 5 million plus control over her estate and foundation. But he didn't live to many more years after she died.

FINAL VERDICT: Interesting, amusing. Susan and Ralph were good together and what made this film work.