Many Oscar-baiting films are notorious for being unpleasant to watch, as they often focus on the lives of individuals with unfortunate afflictions. While some strive for greatness by addressing important issues, others attempt to win favour through excessive sentimentality. Miss Potter, a 2006 biopic directed by Chris Noonan, is one such film that eschews these conventions in its portrayal of Beatrix Potter, an English writer, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist, best known for the immensely popular children’s book about Peter Rabbit.
The plot centers around Potter, played by Renée Zellweger, in 1902 at the age of 36. Her upper-class parents are disappointed with her failure to marry, and it seems likely she will spend her days as a spinster. However, Potter is far from ordinary, dedicating herself to writing and, after numerous rejections, finally securing a publishing deal for The Tale of Peter Rabbit in 1902. As the book becomes a success, Potter astutely secures her financial independence through royalties. She begins working on sequels with the help of publishers' brother Norman Warne (played by Ewan McGregor) and befriends his sister Millie (played by Emily Watson). When Norman proposes marriage, Potter accepts, despite her parents' misgivings about Norman's perceived lack of social standing.
On the surface, Miss Potter seems like a textbook example of an Oscar-grabbing biopic, featuring a famous literary figure, a period setting lovingly recreated through British locations and impressive acting talents. Zellweger, hot off her success in Bridget Jones' Diary, showcases her ability to transform herself into a character with a distinct English accent and deliberately plain appearance.
Chris Noonan, the director, brings his family-friendly experience from Babe to the table, evident in scenes that depict Potter's love of animals. Alyson Hamilton's old-school cell animation breathes life into some of Potter's fictional creations. While these sequences may appeal to children, they are unfortunately fleeting, and the rest of the film struggles to engage audiences.
The romance between Potter and Warne, despite Ewan McGregor's valiant efforts to repeat excellent chemistry with Zellweger in Down with Love, feels out of place in a film that ultimately fails to deliver an emotionally satisfying resolution. Moreover, Noonan's direction often veers too far into overemphasizing Beatrix Potter as a proto-feminist and courageous iconoclast.
Despite its shortcomings, Miss Potter can be recommended as an interesting and mostly successful attempt at a gentler, kinder Oscar-baiting film. While it may not have won any awards, the film's earnest intentions and splendid performances make it worth watching for those interested in the life of Beatrix Potter and her enduring legacy.
RATING: 5/10 (++)
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