Not what I expected

Rating: 6/10 (25 October 2004)

I must admit it's not a fantastic story.....quite tame for today's issues. The plot could have been a little more intriguing, meaning the core of the plot was divulged to the viewer earlier on in the film. I would have liked to have had some suspense, or surprises interwoven into the plot.
Redford in my opinion has proved himself as an accomplished director in his own right over the years. I have no problem with his ability to direct, though I thought the screenplay could have been better, something Redford could have worked with to make it memorable. The actors were all capable and some were very impressive with their characterisations, though this doesn't save the film (for me anyway).
The underlying aspects were dealt with extremely well. I was trying to imagine myself as a contestant and wonder how I would cope with the situation placed upon me like it was with the character; Charles Van Doren. I suppose there comes a time in everyone's life where the struggle between right and wrong is a constant battle to a certain degree, given the situation. The final overview I have is it is so difficult to question one's own judgment and integrity while being tempted by either money, fame or acceptance.
Truly, I have to be honest.....I watched it (or should I say, I came back to it 3 times) I literally forced myself to finish watching it. I give it a 6/10.