I will preface that I think Keira Knightley is stunning and I like period pieces. I also like Anna Karenina.

This is a visually stunning film. The set design is gorgeous. The costumes are gorgeous. It is staged like a play and that is a little offputting. I never thought Jude Law was all that in the handsome department so his casting as Anna's stodgy but loving husband Alexei worked. I did not know the actor who played her lover Vronsky. Not my type at all but he was servicable if not exciting.

I liked but did not love the film. I thought it was well played, but it missed magic in some way.

The audience was full of middle-aged and above couples. I think the female halves of the couples shared my opinion. The men thought, well, I'm glad that's over.

The film is getting mixed reviews ~ very similar to your own, Kath ~ I remember reading the book, literally decades ago, but I don't remember much detail ~ rereading it might be a good "winter read" ~

Sooz