|
Saw The Constant Gardener last night, on the big screen at the Big Newport. Theater was packed. Opening night. Enjoyed it. Easy to recommend. Only thing I didn't like was the title, which sounds stupid to me. Rotten Tomatoes rates it highly. Certified Fresh. Based on the book by Britsh spy novelist John Le Carre. (I loved The Russia House.) Takes you to Africa. Hauntingly beautiful tribal music. (See it at a theater with a good sound system.) ••• continued ••• Stars Ralph Fiennes. I'm normally not a fan, but I liked him in this movie (a first). Also appreciated that the lead actress, Rachel Weisz, has more character than beauty. Made it more believable. I enjoyed the way they provide just enough info to engage you in figuring out what's going on. Made it easy to get involved, despite a fragmented feel / approach to storytelling. Starts with a murder and then goes back to where it all began, so you learn how the characters got there. Disturbing theme. Definitely not a feel-good flick. Portrays a troubling indictment of the Pharmaceutical industry, where profit$ take precedent over people. Complicated sub-plots, which I enjoy. Most enjoyable was that this movie is all *story*. No special effects. I enjoy special effects, but never at the expense of story. Audience applauded at the end. Walking out, I felt like I got my money's worth. Normally I don't. |
|