This adaptation of a highly successful book brings together two talents on a roll. At 19, Scarlett Johansson has embellished a burgeoning reputation with a Golden Globe nomination for Lost In Translation, while Colin Firth is currently romancing audiences in Love Actually and is heading into the Bridget Jones sequel.

Firth is in period mode as the 17th century Dutch painter Jan Vermeer, brooding, silent, but bursting with subdued passion.

It's his perceptive artistic eye which first attracts his obsessively fastidious new maid, played by Johansson. In turn she can't help catching Vermeer's attention. Sensing his new servant is a kindred spirit who understands the importance of his work, Vermeer begins to train her in the careful process of paint-making.

The film is full of beautiful set-pieces influenced by Vermeer's style, and indeed the title refers to one of his most famous paintings. The Girl With A Pearl Earring is the maid Griet herself, and her bond with the artist incurs the wrath of his persistently pregnant wife.

Every shot of this film is meticulously composed and beautifully lit, making this first feature film from director Peter Webber a visual feast, and for that reason alone an experience to be savoured.

Colin Firth is measured, subtle and effective. It's true that he isn't called upon to do very much more than look troubled and moodily romantic while wearing a frilly blouson, but I suspect there are many of you who will find that more than satisfactory. You know who you are ladies.

Perhaps surprisingly, Scarlett Johansson captures the period tone perfectly in terms of both performance and appearance. The storyline is not the most dramatic, but the detail and majesty of the visuals are more than enough to sustain interest, and the overall impact is thoroughly engrossing.

Girl With A Pearl Earring opens on Friday 16th January and I recommend you relax in its luminous and stately splendour.

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