When filmed as The Innocents, Henry James's Victorian ghost story was truly spine-chilling, with one's imagination being cleverly manipulated by cinematic technique.
The stage version has to rely on theatrical tricks and effects to achieve the essential tension and suspense that the story requires. Sadly this production with its tinny sound effects and flickering lights fails in that attempt and any suspense that is created is lost in the numerous scene change delays.
The pivotal role in this psychological thriller is the Governess, who sees the ghosts of her predecessor and her lover and becomes obsessed wit the idea that the children in her charge are in danger from them. In this role, Honeysuckle Weeks disappoints. Her acting lacks credibility and her vocal delivery is irritating. A much stronger performance comes from Helen Weir as the housekeeper.
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