I really want to say that this is a good movie because the acting is solid, decent story, great cinematography, cracking score by howard shore, but the pacing of the film was off. Bit of a drag at times, such a shame , unfortunately a meh 6 out of 10.
shareI agree. It was good but should have been better.
shareOh, I watched it last night and it was one of the most enjoyable movie-watching experiences I've had in recent memory.
I really thought it was a fresh and original murdery mystery in an era where so many films feel like movies I've already seen before. It has interesting characters, a story that definitely feels different from the usual thing, great performances from a good cast, a lot of atmosphere, and some beautiful cinematography. Also, Robert Duvall putting in an appearance was great.
I would give it at least a 7.5, and if I weren't allowed to use half-points, I would go up to an 8 rather than down to a 7.
I've always felt movies need a reason to exist. I've found more and more movies that have no reason to "be". They're just there taking up space with no sense of purpose or any sort of offering to tickle our minds. This is definitely one of them.
It's a whodunnit. With Edgar Allen Poe helping. That's it. There's nothing else to it.
Agreed, well described
shareI really appreciated the unique setting (West Point in the 19th century) and the overall atmosphere of the film. Also, the plot line of a girl turning to the devil to get aid for her illness was certainly unexpected.
shareSure! It’s beautiful. It’s dark. It’s cinematic - but it’s hollow inside that pretty veneer.
shareI liked it (7/10) for its 'pretty veneer' more than the story or pacing. The gothic setting and atmosphere were mesmerizing. The look of the characters also added to the film, particularly the gaunt face and peculiar features — or the 'aesthetics' as Poe's character describes it — of Edgar Allen Poe. Take away the cinematography and mood, and it's a mediocre movie.
sharea bit contrived. the devil worshipping angle was lame.
share