I finally found the time to read Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, the much appreciated classic novel. It was everything I could hope for in all of its Gothic goodness; in fact, it's probably one of the best examples of Gothic literature that I have come across. There's a horrific fire, a gorgeous setting, a mystery, haunting fogs, and sometimes even terror. I also appreciated the hints of supernatural elements.
Regarding the novel, I did think Rebecca started off a bit slow. However, I am so glad I stuck with it, because things get good...really good! I loved the time period of the mid-thirties, the opulent estate of Manderley, and all the gorgeous details. Du Maurier does an excellent job with characterization and her writing is brilliant. There were certain passages that really stuck out for me and were absolutely breathtaking, not to mention the famous opening line of the novel, "last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again..." Here are a few of my favorite passages:
"If only there could be an invention that bottled up a memory, like scent. And it never faded, and it never got stale. And then, when one wanted it, the bottle could be uncorked, and it would be like living the moment all over again.”
“I suppose sooner or later in the life of everyone comes a moment of trial. We all of us have our particular devil who rides us and torments us, and we must give battle in the end.”
The release of Netflix's Rebecca, inspired me to read the classic novel first then watch the movie. I just started Netflix's Rebecca and I am enjoying it so far. The costumes, the gorgeous setting, and the building of Manderley itself is breathtaking! Kristin Scott Thomas as the disgruntled Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper at Manderley, is fantastic. I love how they filmed Rebecca and really tried to portray the Gothic elements of the novel once she arrived at the sprawling estate.
Have you watched Rebecca on Netflix? Do you have plans to? Have you read the novel? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
I loved the book but I haven't watched the Netflix version yet - hopefully soon!
ReplyDeleteYou'll have to let me know your thoughts when you do! Thanks for visiting, Angela!
DeleteWhat did you think of the Netflix version overall, Christina? I'm interested to hear your thoughts as I've heard very mixed (mostly bad!) reviews. I've read the book and watched the Hitchcock-directed version years back. I will check out this new version too (even though I've heard it's not great!)
ReplyDeleteI think I need to watch the Hitchcock film before I decide. I had a few issues with Rebecca so far (I am not done due to election anxiety), but hope to finish it soon. I look forward to your thoughts on it! I have high hopes b/c I like Lily James from Downton!
DeleteI watched Rebecca yesterday and I thought it was pretty good. I enjoyed it as a good Sunday afternoon movie. I think people are being too harsh on it just because it's not Hitchcock, and it's not Olivier, you know? OMG, I know, I watched more CNN in the past week than I have in my entire life. I feel like John King and Wolf Blitzer are my new bff's!
ReplyDeleteI agree. I didn't think it was horrible either, but I haven't watched the classic Hitchcock yet. RIGHT??? I have been watching news 24/7. It's crazy times over here in the US! Hopefully better days are coming! I can only imagine what you guys think of us in Ireland. Haha.
DeleteHaha! Well....I am so happy for you guys (and the rest of the world!) that Biden won! Things can only get better! :)
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