“Girl with a Pearl Earring” is kind-a film for Oscar, if we neglect the fact that history of art films are nothing new for cinematography and production design. However, I am pleased to see, that first-time director Peter Webber and his team have *channeled the look of Vermeer into a celluloid replica. “Girl with a Pearl Earring” is the first feature picture for director Peter Webber. Everything else in the film is a very copy of the time, when the 17-century Dutch painter actually lived. No matter how this is exciting and interesting to see, on the end, this is all you get: a re-perspective of the society and life in Holland of 1665. The movie implies the story behind the creation of Vermeer's 1665 painting, called "Girl with a Pearl Earring." Since historical records are sketches, most of the screenplay (based on Tracy Chevalier's book) is speculative. Which gives lots of space for a compelling love story, as the film is not labeled as "based on real events". Nevertheless, the tale was not just taken for granted. Above all, it is credible and dramatically solid, shaping the basis for a sensitive and intelligent motion picture, with historical background. So what is to expect here? Well, a top-class acting in rather British production, without any fear to get disappointed, especially if you appreciate a cut&paste of the usual BBC costume drama.

Griet a teenager goes to work in the household of Johannes Vermeer. She is forced into maid service because her parents can no longer support her. The conditions of work are difficult but she must stay employed. The Vermeers Family is not easy to work for. But Griet is, with her personality, also an inspiration. She has native intelligence and instincts that are making Vermeer a better artist. But her sympathetic nature is making a domestic storm. The head of the household Vermeers (Colin Firth) is a moody person that spends long hours painting, seeking for the right light, locked away in his gloomy studio. His pregnant wife, Catharine, is resentful and jealous of Griet's youth and natural beauty. His mother-in-law, Maria is control freak. His children don't like Griet and his patron, van Ruijven, likes her a little bit too much. Eventually, van Ruijven's attraction for Griet leads him to commission a painting of her. Maid posing, in 17. Century, for master includes a variety of tensions and interruptions, of domestic and erotic kind. Meanwhile, Griet must consider a marriage proposal from the local butcher boy, played by Irish beauty Cillian Murphy [main role of “28 Days Later”]. The result of this, however, is "Girl with a Pearl Earring" painting that will later become a recognizable presenter of the Dutch 17th century painting style. Vermeer's chief patron and Griet's stalker is becoming critically blind as for perusing his sexual oppression. Young Griet is having a very good eye, recognizing the potential of the master’s inspiration, by simple improving the lights in the studio.

“Girl With a Pearl Earring” is adaptation of Tracy Chevalier's novel. The author of the book invents a back-up story to Vermeer's immortal painting. The filmmakers have successfully reproduced the painter's color tonalities—the blues and yellows, the dull sparkle of tin&lead cutlery; pale twinkled dress edged in white and black. A popular painting style for that period in Holland. “Girl with a Pearl Earring” offers visual and compelling drama, effective enough in a pleasing BBC classic kind of production. The director has crafted the film with great care, composing each frame on a very compelling way, with colored exteriors, that captures the flavor of 17th-century.