Amazing

Rating: 10/10 (25 May 2007)

This was nothing like I expected it to be. I expected a Lord of the Rings type fantasy, but got a much more drama oriented film. Maybe like 25% fantasy, 75% historical fiction. Seriously, I was amazed throughout the whole thing. I had heard it was good, but did not expect something this good. A must see, even if you hate subtitles. The acting, cinematography, make up, direction and art direction were all superb. Sergi López and Ariadna Gil's performances were utterly unforgettable.
This film easily makes my top five, and could quite possible be 1 or 2 after I have reviewed it more. However, I can see how some people that may not be into the historical fiction, drama, or fantasy may not like it. If you are a bunch of college kids looking to watch a movie during a party, this is not for you. If you simply want to watch a great movie in a suitable atmosphere (don't get distracted from reading the subtitles, because you could miss a lot) then it would be foolish of you to not watch this movie.
A note on the violence. There isn't all that much of it, but there is more than I expected, and it is especially graphic. However, I feel it adds to the drama instead of creating the cheap thrills it is used for in other films. It really makes you feel for characters and see how atrocious or passionate others really are.
Bottom Line: 10/10