Customer Reviews

Count of Monte Cristo,

5 star:		(87)
4 star:		(40)
3 star:		(18)
2 star:		(13)
1 star:		(24)

 

 

This swashbuckler from Kevin Reynolds has enough going for it to leave one ultimately satisfied and entertained but I can't escape a conviction that the film achieves no more than the sum of its parts. With so many screen adaptations of Alexander Dumas' literary classic, it was a monumental challenge to come up with something fresh and relevant without losing the spirit of the book. Other critics have pointed out that the film departs substantially from Dumas towards the end. Much is changed although the main storyline of betrayal, imprisonment and revenge remains. Strictly within its own terms of reference the production works quite well.

Director Reynolds, like Ridley Scott, excels with lighting, colour and framing his pictures to "force the eye." He captures an appropriate classical look with rich, deep colours, and the shadow contrast in scenes with candles or firelight is noticeably good. Acting is uniformly accomplished in the main roles. Jim Caviezel offers a thoroughly believable hero in Edmond Dantes and Guy Pearce is a delight as the dissolute and cynical betrayer Count Mondego. My own favourites are Richard Harris who brings a gentle wisdom and humanity to the part of the Abbe Faria, and the extraordinary Michael Wincott as the deliciously sadistic warden of the Chateau d'If, Armand Dorleac.

One can revel in neat lines of dialogue like "treason is only a matter of dates," or "I lied....I am a priest, not a saint." There are also many humorous asides that are guaranteed to elicit a chuckle, but here I think is a problem. The dialogue contains sudden lapses into modern idiom which, while often amusing, conflict with the general period language of the story and this may break the spell for certain viewers. Some of the casting in the smaller roles also reflects an inconsistency in style. Conversely one might argue that such changes of pace and mood offer a variety which prevents the film from taking itself too seriously. Either way it treads a fine line between "suspension of disbelief" and parody.

Those looking for a faithful adaptation of Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" may find this film wanting, If, however, you're interested simply in an entertaining adventure with intrigue, swordplay, humour and romance in a period setting, you could do a lot worse.

While this maybe an entertainig movie for the ones who have not read the book, it is an abomination for those of us who cherish one of the world's greatest classics. It is like Romeo and Juliette getting married and live happily ever after. There are indeed beautiful scenes, good acting and an appealing story the movie is not really reflecting the book. I was thoroughly disgusted walking out of the theater. I would very highly recommend the 1974 version with Richard Chaimberlain as a much better film

An entertaining version (though not remotely true to the original story), with greatly exaggerated plot lines, but because Jim Caviezel is the star I would consider it a must see.

Such a good family movie! Morals, intrigue, romance, history, God.. what more could you ask for? If you don't watch you are missing out.

So this movie was sent to me wrapped in shrink wrap that was partially open and the package is very flimsy and cheap looking, not like regular Blu-ray cases! The movie itself is NOT Blu-ray quality at all!!! It's blurry and very "grey". Not crisp or vivid at all. I have a large collection of blu-rays so if you are used to the quality of blu ray, do not buy this! Not happy at all with this purchase and will look into getting a refund. No wonder it was so cheap.

I saw this movie about 2 years ago and really enjoyed it and I couldn't find it in store anywhere, when I saw it on Amazon.ca I was really happy to add it to my collection.

i love this movie fell in love with the storyline and it gave hope to the hopeless but i watch it with friends any time of the week. Thank you Amazon

Absolutely the BEST, really enjoyed the film and the service from amazaon.ca was extremely quick. Will for sure order again and of course recommend to all.

I have watched many movies of Monte Cristo but this is the best ever. The acting and story line are great.

Wonderful Period piece, Jim is over the top gorgeous in this one. Also does a great job of going from the life loving young man, to the vengeful older count, beautiful locations.