Quite entertaining

Rating: Null/10 (24 May 2006)

I went along to see this film with a completely open mind - I had never read the book so only knew what the general theme of the story was. It is, therefore, impossible for me to judge it in the way that those of you who know the book well may judge it. I understand that the film has been branded a turkey by the critics. I must disagree with them. OK, it's not great art and will never become a classic of the cinema, but it holds up as a reasonable thriller and is quite acceptable for an evening's entertainment. The cast puts in an acceptable effort to keep the plot rolling along at a good pace. I must add that the film has not made me want to rush out and buy the book and I really can't see what all the fuss is about (that's probably because I'm a non - believer). As for the film's effect on me - I didn't leave the cinema thinking about anything really, apart from the fact that I fancied Jean Yves Berteloot (Ian Mckellan's butler/valet in the film)!