“The Lesson” (** out of four) was a curiously unmoving melodrama about a young author (Daryl McCormack) who takes a position at the estate of a legendary writer (Richard E. Grant) and develops a relationship with his wife (Julie Delpy) all the while trying to hone his own observatory skills at writing. Earnest story is given credence by its strong pedigree and cast but it never connects much emotionally and is lacking in any vitality and passion. Director Alice Troughton directs with her typical leisurely and neo-classical style but she needs more “lessons” of her own on pacing and dramatics.