What a Distaster!!!!!

Rating: Null/10 (22 May 2001)

I can't believe this film was directed by the same person who made Trainspotting - one of the greatest films I've ever seen! The story synopsis had promise but the mess that was the film was blah!!!!! It was like the director was trying to capture the feeling of an updated "Lord of the Flies" but it came across as a lot of rich brats away at "camp" desecrating an island paradise. If it had some dark, ominous undertones I could forgive its obvious and abundant shortcomings because at least it would have had SOME entertainment value. As it stands, the script and performances (except for the wonderful Robert Carlyle who seems to be able to make the best out of anything he's given) are utterly atrocious (esp Di Caprio's intensely annoying Richard). The ending of the film was so lacking in soul that it made me feel ill. If you want true adventure go out and experience life first hand and leave this dreck on the video library shelf where it belongs. I give this film one star for Bob Carlyle.