As in the book, the film tells its story in three parts - the first involves that tragic error: an error that will alter the destinies of three adults. The second explores its aftermath, and the third is where the atonement of the title comes into play.

The effect is haunting as are the fractured pieces of the past, which slowly build to one last shocking revelation. Sterling performances are given by Knightley (defined by an elegantly poised backbone) and Irish actress Romola Garai as the 18-year-old Briony Tallis, the little girl who feels she must make atonement for bearing false witness in her childhood. Briony ages from 13 to 70, and the two older ones by Romola Garai and Vanessa Redgrave.

James McAvoy is in top shape, as he exudes the essence of humanity. Atonement is a clever, deeply thought-provoking film, showing how far one might be willing to go, in both their public and private worlds, to correct a life-changing mistake. Chalk up another achievement for Joe Wright, who must now be recognized as an auteur with few equals of his age and experience in world cinema.