Felt like a static experience

Rating: 7/10 (16 June 2006)

There was a story there, but it was full of inconsistencies, especially after the first 20 or so minutes.
Obviously, the writer/director has some kind of axe to grind against organized religion. If they were trying to show the evil that men do, they missed it, wrapped up with too many over the top visual effects in the climax.
The cinematography was outstanding, if there was an end to the world, I'd imagine it looks the way that this film was shot, especially the initial shots of Silent Hill town/village.
I've never played the game. I went to this film looking for a horror film, and it was basically some time sitting watching what is essentially a stark, scary dream sequence, following a fairly linear plot, for the most part.
The acting was good to great, especially with the female roles. The woman who portrayed the Motorcycle cop stole the show, from her first appearance. The male lead was written to be a bit too passive, but did a good job with what he was given. Some of the supporting cast were stereotypes, but really I think more writing / development was needed.
Overall, visually beautiful, good acting, the story was weak, and didn't make a lot of sense to me. It felt like a video game walkthrough, that was turned into a film.
If you are a fan of the game, I'd say go see it. Or if you'd like to see some nice camera work.
It was worth 2.50 each admission at the local Dollar Theater, but not something I am going to buy a DVD for.