RE: Film Revew: 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' (2019): Messy, Dull
I actually rather liked it. (Quite enjoyed the book too.) Nothing earth-shattering, but well done with a stylish 60s feel.
I thought the twist-reveal was rather flat, but I did like the way it put the characters into new perspective. Merrikat was rather mopey and unsympathetic, I suppose, but I definitely felt she was the put-upon victim for most of the story. And Cousin Charles, who was a pushy "Mansplaining" douchebag for most of the film, and who lost control at the end--well, maybe, just maybe, he could have been Constance's only chance for happiness.
I can also relate to the story of a once-noble family in decline, wealthy ancestors who were for the most part bastards, and a couple of women clinging to the only life they've ever known well past the time it's time to move on. Merrikat and Constance are a good deal like my mother and grandmother, actually, and sometimes I fret about what my sister might be getting up to all alone in her attick apartment...
The basic story is good, but it could have been filmed SO much better. It's the difference between a master filmmaker like Wise or Hitchcock, and a journeyman TV director.
Sorry to hear about your sister!