Film Review: Dorian Gray (2009)

The performances in Dorian Gray are strong, with Ben Barnes effectively portraying Dorian’s transformation and Colin Firth excelling as the cynical Lord Henry, despite limited exploration of his character’s depth. The film simplifies Wilde’s themes of aestheticism and moral duality, focusing instead on external drama, making it accessible but less nuanced than the novel.An adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray should strive to reflect Wilde’s core ideas, as they are integral to the story’s lasting appeal. While it is natural for filmmakers to interpret source material through their creative lens, the film’s heavy reliance on visual storytelling leaves little room for the intellectual depth and moral ambiguity that define the book. This makes the film feel like a missed opportunity to engage viewers on a deeper level.…