Henry James's biting novel 'Washington Square' is given a lush adaptation from acclaimed director Agnieszka Holland and buoyed by sharp performances from its cast.



The story concerns Austin Sloper (Finney), a wealthy, widowed doctor who is unable to hide his disdain for his plain, shrinking violet daughter, Catherine (Leigh). When Morris Townsend (Chaplin) enters her life - a charming, but penniless, suitor - Austin's lack of faith in his daughter's ability to charm convinces him that Morris's intentions are only mercenary. Catherine doesn't take kindly to her stern father's restrictions and continues the relationship, assisted by her romantically inclined dowager aunt, Lavinia Penniman (Maggie Smith), and will be forced to choose between her father's fortune and the man she loves...