WITH some sound performances from Ed Norton and Naomi Watts (particularly the latter), this third incarnation of Maugham's 1920s literary masterpiece benefits greatly from some absolutely stunning scenery around China's Yangtze River (the untouched parts).

The romantic tale of a loveless marriage, infidelity, a suicidal mission to stem a cholera outbreak and, ultimately, a woman's search for herself, is weaved subtley by the leads, with a fine supporting cast and a believable script.

The '20s costumes are also a joy to behold (probably just a girly thing!) and the musical score is haunting and apt.

All in all, a DVD that's well worth a watch.