70
So tastefully subdued it makes Merchant Ivory look like Gaspar Noé. And while they never look bored, Smith and Dench are clearly slumming, having played these roles in other costume pics.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
75
Christian Science Monitor by David Sterritt
Dance's directorial debut isn't exciting, but it's deeply felt and engagingly acted. Why doesn't he take more advantage of the story's opportunities for fine music, though?
70
Charles Dance's début feature is an impressive achievement.
80
Los Angeles Times by Kevin Thomas
It is a pleasure from start to finish.
60
TV Guide Magazine by Maitland McDonagh
Its appeal lies in the powerhouse performances delivered by Dench and Smith.
70
The Hollywood Reporter by Michael Rechtshaffen
It is to Dance's considerable credit that he never lets the filmmaking overtake the understated storytelling.
30
Ladies in Lavender oscillates between scenes so relentlessly nice they make you want to scream and others - particularly those depicting the crush Dench develops on her new housemate - creepier than anything in "The Amityville Horror."
60
The New York Times by Stephen Holden
The cinematic equivalent of a visit from a cherished but increasingly dithery maiden aunt.
60
The A.V. Club by Tasha Robinson
It's important to go in knowing the central secret of the movie: Nothing exciting is going to happen. Ever. Armed with that knowledge, viewers should be able to settle down and enjoy the extremely low-key, melancholy character study that plays out between a handful of excellent actors.