Vanity Fair 2004

The film Vanity Fair (2004) brings to life one of the most cherished 19th-century novels, penned by William Makepeace Thackeray, who was a contemporary and friend of Charles Dickens. The story begins by introducing us to our two protagonists, Rebecca Sharp and Amelia Sedley, who share a close friendship as they are on the verge of graduating from an Academy for Young Ladies. Amelia, hailing from a wealthy family, is characterized by her kindness and innocence, which endears her to her classmates and earns her the admiration of her teachers.

Meanwhile, the resourceful Rebecca, often referred to as “Becky,” is a poor orphan, precariously positioned as an unpaid French teacher at the academy. The name “Sharp” is quite fitting for her character, as she frankly navigates her surroundings with little regard for those who don’t matter. Her only ally is Amelia, and she neither seeks nor cares for friendship beyond her. After graduation, Becky is invited to the Sedley residence for a brief stay before she sets out to find work as a governess.

During her time at the Sedley home, she encounters two young men: Josiah, Amelia’s brother, who is somewhat of a figure of ridicule after returning home from his job as an administrator in India, and George, Amelia’s fiancé. George has numerous flaws—he’s a snobbish character who shows little appreciation for Amelia’s love despite their lifelong engagement. Furthermore, he squanders his father’s riches on gambling, being encouraged by his parent to pursue a lifestyle that elevates him above his family’s humble beginnings in commerce.

This gathering of four heads to a local pleasure garden, where Becky sets her sights on Josiah, contemplating a potential match. Despite her cunning efforts, George undermines Becky’s chances by making a derisive comment to Josiah about the prospect of having a lowly governess in their family. Both men are acutely aware of their social standings and the opinions of their peers, which leaves Becky’s first bid for acceptance in society unsuccessful.

As the narrative unfolds, George’s father facilitates his social climb by purchasing him a commission in a military regiment. This sets the stage for the introduction of Captain William Dobbin, a man whose affection for Amelia is a testament to true love, standing in stark contrast to the superficial relations around them.