Over hyped book leads to over hyped film

Rating: 6/10 (2 June 2006)

Let me start by saying this... I have not read the book. This review is on the merits of this work as a film alone. Now that we have gotten that business over with, let us begin.
This is a mediocre film at best that has been over hyped by the media in an effort to sell news papers and get you to watch the 11:00 evening news. I am a fan of both Howard and Hanks and the work they have done together so far has been exemplary. If you enter the theater looking for an excuse to dislike the film, you will find plenty of reasons. If you enter looking for a reason to praise the film, there are a few. Let's break it down...
Story: Suspension of disbelief is required in abundant amounts for this predictable story full of convenient coincidences, character arcs, and repetitive dialog and imagery intended to drive the point into you over and over until you feel as if you're being hit in the head with a hammer. While I can not speak to the content of the original book, I can not assume that all these obvious flaws are limited to the film alone.
Directing and Cinematography: On the technical elements of the film, it is a decent body of work. The lighting, camera position, movement of the actors through each scene; they are all executed well by capable hands. Each scene evokes the expected emotion giving you the excitement of a treasure hunt, the thrill of a chase, and the intrigue of a mystery. Well done Mr. Howard.
Acting: It is hard to find flaw with Tom Hank's work but in this film he comes across as a little too charismatic for the bookworm he is supposed to portray. Audrey Tautou does a fine job given the script she was handed but most of the flaws there have to do with her character not with her as an actor.
Supporting Characters: This is where the film falls apart. The supporting characters are often two dimensional and stray from their spine. What I mean to say is each character as they are introduced is given a spine that defines them. The spine tells you who they are and what their motivation is. When the character does something, you can read from their spine WHY they would do such a thing. In this film the supporting characters often deviate from their spine simply to drive the plot. Without revealing any spoilers, as you watch the film, look specifically at the characters of Captain Fache and André Vernet.
Finally the Media: The media has hyped the book and the film to the point of idolization just so they can knock it off its virtual pedestal in order to drive sales and to get you to watch the late night news. These reports about protesters and boycotts and other such antics are just a means for them to capitalize on the hype they have created. Oh, and by the way, it takes a special brand of idiot to think ANY of this fictional work is real.
So in conclusion, as a film I give this a 6 out of 10 vote. If you are looking for some entertainment and don't care much for some annoying plot holes or character flaws, by all means see this film. If you are a connoisseur of fine film and you are looking for a thought provoking story of good, evil, love, and redemption; I must recommend you rent Road to Perdition instead. It is by far the best work Tom Hanks has ever done.