Enjoyable video-game-to-movie romp

Rating: 7/10 (22 April 2006)

Silent Hill. The groundbreaking survival horror game, known for a unique atmosphere, high level of gore and an ability to scare the player in a way never before done in a video game. An original plot with beautiful music. Spawned two successful sequels whilst managing staying out of the mainstream until in 2003, Sony green lit the production of Silent Hill Â– the movie. I saw it last night, here is my review.
The screenplay was one of the film's few let downs. It begins with the familiar Silent Hill opening, of the parent looking for the lost child in Silent Hill. The mother (Rose DaSilva) then follows a number of clues about the town, whilst avoiding a number of monster attacks. Very reminiscent of the game. This is all rather clumsily done and the middle becomes slightly boring. The basis of the confrontation is nothing we haven't seen before and we are left with the familiar open ending.
There are no standout performances throughout the film with many actors struggling with the weak script. Radha Mitchell is decisively average and disappoints when playing the resolute mother in the film's final half. Sean Bean to overacts the point of annoyance as does Laurie Holden. The little girl also fails to make the cut. Aside from this, the film has an array of saving graces.
The cinematography of the film is consistently beautiful. The familiar Silent Hill fog and snow are present with some recognisable camera angles. The sets are perfect. The 'other world' is also fantastically done. Overall, the film is good on the eye. The visual effects are another boost, although the first monster wave appeared lacklustre, the remainder are horrifyingly realistic and the level of gore makes me question how this received a 15 rating in the UK. Akira Yamaoka's eerie soundtrack is whispered throughout to good effect, although the original Silent Hill title theme is only heard for about 5 seconds.
A better-than-average video game adaptation, partly boosted by the original material. Should satisfy fans of the game and those who can see themselves enjoying it.