Based on the 1971 novel of the same name by E.M. Forster, 1987’s Maurice features Hugh Grant in his first starring role. Directed by James Ivory, and produced by his partner Ismail Merchant, the cast is filled out by several familiar British actors, including Rupert Graves, Denholm Elliott, Ben Kingsley, Simon Callow and James Wilby. Several of whom would appear in later Merchant Ivory films.

Set in 1909, Maurice (James Wilby is a shy, upper class young man, fresh out of Victorian public schools, arriving at Cambridge to begin his studies. He hopes to follow in his late father’s footsteps, graduating with honors, and getting a job in the city. After a chance meeting, Maurice becomes fast friends with the talkative Lord Risley (Mark Tandy), and the markedly handsome Clive Durham (Hugh Grant) an enthusiastic would-be politician, who Maurice takes an immediate interest in.

Soon inseparable, it doesn’t take long for Maurice and Clive to realize that their relationship is more than a friendship. Clive declares his undying love for Maurice, which Maurice initially rejects, but eventually brings them closer than ever before. Their relationship is a complicated one, given the attitudes of the time. Worse yet, Clive is unwilling to give up his standing in society to take their relationship further.  Maurice is left heartbroken after a fight leads to their separation, and Clive’s subsequent marriage. However, a meeting years later offers both men a last chance to reconsider their relationship.

At his request, Forster’s book was published posthumously in fear of bringing shame on his family. James Ivory deserves praise for delivering a film that’s unapologetically pro-gay rights. Set firmly in the rigid English upper class society, Maurice isn’t afraid to explore themes of inequity and arrogance in a serious way, rare for films at the time. Even portraying the female characters in the film as nags who men are forced to put up with.

At nearly two and a half hours, Maurice takes a while to arrive at something of a happy ending.  While that could have been an issue, the impressive cast makes it worth watching. A career defining role for Hugh Grant, he and co-star James Wilby received the Volpe Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival. Elsewhere, Simon Callow gives a solid turn as Mr. Ducie, Maurice’s rather aristocratic, yet friendly former school master, and the usually dependable Ben Kingsley as Dr. Lasker-Jones, whose performance suffers a bit, due to a unbelievable American accent.  Rupert Graves turns up as Scudder, a satisfied under-groundskeeper who catches Maurice’s eye.

Presented in the 1.66:1 aspect ratio, Cohen Media has delivered a pleasing 4K transfer. While a few wide shots show minimal softness, the image is strong overall. There are no print flaws apparent. A nice level of grain gives the proceedings a filmic appearance. The color palette highlights ambers and blues that come across appropriately throughout.  Blacks appear appropriately inky, and low light shots offer a nice level of clarity. Fans should be very pleased with this transfer, which is free of scratches or other anomalies.

The DTS-HD 5.1 MA soundtrack works well for this dialogue heavy film. The soundfield emphasizes Richard Robbins’ score. Effects are appropriately subtle. Dialogue is clean, clear, and concise.

A Blu-ray with the movie is also included. Most of the extras are found on a second Blu-ray.

4K DISC:

• Audio Commentary by Film Critic Wade Major and Joseph Bristow, Distinguished Professor of English, UCLA

BLU-RAY DISC 2:

• James Ivory and Pierre Lhomme on the Making of Maurice
• Q&A with James Ivory and Pierre Lhomme
• Conversation between James Ivory and Director Tom McCarthy
• The Story of Maurice
• Conversation with the Filmmakers
• Original Theatrical Trailer
• 2017 Re-Release Trailer
• Deleted Scenes and Alternate Takes with Audio Commentary by James Ivory