""an utterly beautiful film and a triumph of subtleties""

Firstly, this film is an absolute masterpiece. In a tale of high stakes, this is a period drama pitting two talented landscape artists who attempt to build the garden of dreams for King Louis XIV, a man of exquisite tastes.

Kate Winslet stars as Madame Sabine De Barra, a widowed woman of revolutionary talent and brimming with gardening ideas. As pressure mounts to create perfection or face the consequences before they are out of time, she struggles with sexism among her workers and competitors, a romantic entanglement with her employer and mentor André Le Notre (Matthias Schoenaerts), general grief, and the poisonous actions of jealousy.

It is a truly riveting story that captures the imagination and connects you to the characters. Winslet delivers a stunning performance that is certainly award-worthy, as she breathes life and passion into Madame De Barra in a way that is captivating to the audience -- you genuinely like her and want her to succeed. Co-star Schoenaerts also gives a noteworthy performance, as his character grows and develops significantly throughout the film.

Alan Rickman's portrayal of the King could seem very much by the book and as just another boring demonstration of aristocracy, that is until a little scene that takes place in a private garden between him and Winslet which is outstanding and touching. Also well worth a mention is Helen McCrory as the shallow and conniving Madame Le Notre, and she plays this role perfectly.

Rickman, as the director, has created an utterly beautiful film and a triumph of subtleties.