A New Epic?

Rating: 6/10 (10 June 2015)

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010): Dir: Mike Newell / Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Gemma Arterton, Ben Kingsley, Alfred Molina, Toby Kebbell: Entertaining video game based movie about progression. Jake Gyllenhaal plays the King's adopted son whom is framed for his murder. He is on the run to clear his name and accompanied by a Princess whom was taken from a kingdom for which they invaded for weapons. He possesses a magical dagger that can turn back time. Director Mike Newell is backed with impressive sets and visuals that are a delight to the eye. He previously made such superb entertainment as Pushing Tin and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This is no Harry Potter but it combines elements that worked for that franchise. Gyllenhaal brings a slight comic edge to the determined warrior who learns that many people he thought he knew, are concealing other motives. Gemma Arterton plays the Princess who is captured but will also become a fugitive. They bicker but viewers know how this will turn out. Ben Kingsley plays the villain whom frames him. He has known the Prince since his childhood but now alternate motives become clear. Alfred Molina steals scenes as an outcast whom arranges illegal ostrich races. Upon his introduction he comes off as ruthless but in reality he is peaceful. Unfortunately he kind of fades within the concluding battle as the climax gives way to standard action clichés. Ending makes little sense with its time changing but film is visually stunning and should pass the sands of time in entertaining its target audience. Score: 6 / 10