Read the book, don't watch the movie

Rating: 3/10 (19 May 2006)

I had a few echos about bad critics for this movie, so didn't go with great expectation. The film turned out even worse... From the start, I was disappointed in the overall acting, music and total picture. The characters are not well built, probably way too much information about stuff that doesn't really matter. I agree that there is a lot happening and explanation being done in the book, but it would have been much better to be a little selective. That selection would leave more room to stage the characters and plot instead of this bad trial which seems to have been made in a rush...
Having read the book I was probably biased since I knew the plot. Still, a movie should catch the viewers' attention from the start until the end. This one got me sleepy near the middle, I never had that feel of action nor was I ever on the tip of my chair because of the suspense. I would have probably stopped watching if it were a DVD.
The attempt to explain the ritual is really badly done. I wonder if the viewers that didn't read the book even understand that part (I know I wouldn't). Why wasn't there any space for the romance that grows in the book between the two main characters? Finally, what about that Hanks' speech at the end in order to stay on the good side of the catholic tracks? That was just awful!
Fortunately I got in for free and it came with dinner & drinks... I would have felt bad to spend 8 EUR on this crappy flick.
Anyway, I hope the 3D cinema remake in 20 years will be as captive as the book. In the mean time, don't spend your money on this movie, just go to the library and get the book! Sincerely, Jangske.