In the 19^th century, Writer Morton Vint (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers) has come to Venice to find the lost Aspern papers, a set of love letters from the short-lived Jeffrey Aspern. His obsession brings him to the home of Juliana Bordereau (Vanessa Redgrave) and her niece Tina (Joely Richardson). Juliana is believed to be one of the poet’s former lovers and possibly the keeper of the priced letters. But as Morton tries to win over the women, he soon discovers the price of a broken heart.

THE ASPERN PAPERS (2018) is an adaptation of Herny James’ novel of the same name. It’s a classy looking production with scenic locations and plenty of top dollar clothes. But the whole film feels lifeless and slow. This marks the feature film debut of former model Julien Landais, who understands the look but seems to the idea of pacing and character.

The film is produced by James Ivory of Merchant Ivory, and in interviews Landais has said to have a great love for Ivory’s films including his adaptations of other Henry James novels. But this movie is missing the sure hand of James Ivory as director. It feels rushed. The pacing is off with lots of big moments being forced too soon. The runtime is barely 90 minutes long and it feels like the story is undercut to fit in. Some plot elements are lingered on for too long and some are barely touched on. It feels like an imitation of Merchant Ivory movies but lacks the soul.

The cast is likewise off. Vanessa Redgrave (BLOW-UP) could play this kind of role in her sleep, but Rhys-Meyer and Richardson seem lost. Their characters are paper thin and moody. But instead of it being compelling it feels dreary. Richardson’s character is the film’s biggest misstep. Her drama is so watered down that she feels like a piece of scenery like the garden, instead of a human being.

The English 5.1 Dolby Digital sound mix is full and easy on the ears. There is no hiss or pop. The 2.0 Stereo mix is slightly softer but still sounds great on my sound system. English subtitles are included.

The 1080p HD transfer showcases how well made the movie looks. The colors pop and the black levels are well defined. The film has some slight digital noise in a few of the nighttime scenes.

Making of THE ASPERN PAPERS, Theatrical Trailer, and the most interesting being a roundtable discussion with Director Julien Landais, and producers Gabriela Bacher and James Ivory. The making of is a standard EPK filmed during the production with over lit interviews with the cast and crew. The information is better shared through the roundtable with some great tidbits from Ivory.

THE ASPERN PAPERS is a major disappointment. It looks, and sounds pretty, but at the end of the day it feels like a lifeless imitation of a James Ivory film. Skip it.