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RPJ's smoldering stares: from Wentworth to Winshire

posted 9 years ago by CarissaDV
3 replies | jump to latest

Rupert Penry-Jones has done an excellent job of mastering the smoldering stare, going back to 2007's "Persuasion," in which he portrayed the deeply romantic Capt. Wentworth through a series of controlled yet smoldering facial expressions.

In "Crown For Christmas," he does it again, helping elevate this movie from Hallmark fluff to something worth watching (despite a sub-par performance by his leading lady, who was too fixated on "gee whiz" expressions made worse by her hideous false eyelashes and unflattering furrowed brow).

Despite the mismatch, it's time well spent to watch RPJ's performance as king of Winshire in this movie. He certainly deserved top billing.

Colin Firth is the all-time champ of smoldering stares (1995's "Pride & Prejudice"), but Penry-Jones is a respectable second.

[–] preppy017 9 years ago

*Imagines Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy and Rupert Penry-Jones as Captain Wentworth in period attire*...Can't think...can't choose.

I know Danica doesn't seem like a natural choice, but I thought her awkwardness and his refinement worked with this movie. She kind've related to the average American in this regard, comparing courtyard etiquette to "Downtown Abbey." Besides, Rupert seemingly has such a dramatic presence in this movie that I can imagine any of the Hallmark actresses being any different around him, even after discovering how easygoing he is beneath the surface.

You're certainly right about the smoldering aspect. Both Colin and Rupert appear to have that sincere, warmth in their smile that likely make their leading ladies, feel loved and secure, while living on cloud nine. I'm slightly exaggerating ;-).

[–] nutsberryfarm 8 years ago

smoldering stares are a lost art.

🎄Season's Greetings!🎄

[–] CakesAndAle 8 years ago

I enjoy CF and RPJ, but imo the smouldering award belongs to Richard Armitage, esp as John Thornton in Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South.