The Movie Atonement and its Cast

Choosing the cast of Atonement, was one of the most difficult tasks for director, Joe Wright.  He had to select each actor/actress wisely and match them with a character in his movie.  Atonement is often misunderstood and misinterpreted by its viewers.  During the movie, what Briony sees and what is actually happening are two completely different situations.  Because of Briony's limited point of view, it causes the director to repeat the same episode, but through different eyes so the viewer receives the whole picture.  This has caused a lot of confusion and misunderstanding of Atonement.  Despite this misunderstanding the actors of Atonement were stupendous and they deserve recognition.  I have listed the main actors along with the part they play in the movie and a slight discription.

Director - Joe Wright
Cecilia Tallis - Keira Knightley
Cecilia is Briony's older sister by ten years, she suffers from multiple misfortunes throughout Atonement. She is described as untidy yet very caring.
Robbie Turner - James McAovy
He is the main male character of Atonement.  He falls in love with Cecilia, and is falsey accused of rape by Briony Tallis.
Briony Tallis - Saoirse Ronan
She is the main character of the movie as the 13 year old girl moves throughout her adolescent years. She is described as imaginative and naive.
Emily Tallis - Harriet Walter
Emily is mother to Cecilia, Leon and Briony. She is described as distant and unfriendly, perhaps even depressed.  Ever since Briony's birth she suffers from severe migraines. 
Lola Quincey - Juno Temple
Lola is cousin to Briony and is staying at her home as her parents go through a divorce.  She is described as selfish and oblivious.  Lola is the victim of rape and sexual assault.
Leon Tallis - Patrick Kennedy
Leon is Briony's older brother.  He is described as care free and well spirited.  He is a friend to Paul Marshall.
Paul Marshall - Benedict Cumberbatch
He is Leon Tallis' friend who is staying at the Tallis' estate.  Paul is out to get Lola from the beginning, he sexually assaults her and the proceeds to rape her.



James McAvoy, Saoirse Ronan, Venessa Redgrave, director Joe Wright, Keira Knightley

For More Information On The Cast & Crew