geoff_colmer Reviews

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

Vinci not as bad as critics suggest

[7/10 · 21 May 2006]

I have just returned from the local (packed) cinema after watching this movie - released this weekend. I hadn't expected much as the press had been full of downers, but I thought that I had enjoyed the novel so much that I had to give the film-makers a chance.

The list of talented actors that appear, even in some of the minor roles, is very impressive. Not one lets us down. The two primary leads do well, although I had the feeling that Hanks wasn't comfortable, and the chemistry between he and Tautou didn't come off in my opinion. But, as I said, each played their parts well.

Those that have read the book, I would say that you will enjoy the film, but do keep in mind that such a long novel cannot carry the whole story to the silver screen. Those that haven't read the book, and I think there's about 2 people on Easter Island and 1 in Nepal that haven't, you need a brief outline of the jist of the story before you go.

Conclusion, not as bad as the critics say it is, and worth the cost of admission.

Family Secrets (2001)

Family Secrets

[5/10 · 14 May 2006]

I have just watched this movie so this is all fresh in my mind. The cast is a solid one and I particularly think that the young boy's role is well-played. This is an emotionally charged film or, at least, could be.

The story surrounds a pre-WW1 family unable to express love and affection to one another. Each member, from father, mother, and more centrally, the son are scared by the events of recent years. Enter a childless widow, as teacher, who gently draws the boy from his imaginary world.

The script has relatively few words expecting the direction and acting to provide the electricity. It just doesn't quite get there. There are scenes of lonesome characters crying as the lightning strikes over their rich mansion, but I am simply unconvinced by their presumable deep ingrained distress.

Nice try. One for a rainy afternoon on cable.