Desert Hymns

Rating: Null/10 (24 August 2009)

The late Minghella's epic tragic love story set during the World War is a haunting, mesmerizing piece of cinema. Each scene looks like a beautiful piece of oil on canvas, like part of a tapestry. It's rich in poetry, colour and emotions. Yared's scintillating score and Seale's dazzling cinematography really capture the poetic essence of the scenes. Even though 'The English Patient' is a long epic film, it flows at a smooth and fluid pace. Minghella knows how to tell a story of epic proportions. In addition, he has internationally cast some of the finest actors. Ralph Fiennes is excellent in his subtle portrayal of Count Lazlo. Kirsten Scott Thomas is incredibly radiant, sensual and charming. She burns the screen with her appearance. While Juliette Binoche, who is equally amazing, beautifully shines like a candle in the dark. Willem Defoe is superb as the double agent turned tough avenger with a human heart. Colin Firth is outstanding as Katherine's pained husband as he speaks volumes with little word. Naveen Andrews is terrific and more than holds his own with his more experienced cast members. Minghella made one of the finest films of the genre and it belongs among my all time favourites. He has taken the ingredients required to make such a film and creates something that becomes a unique cinematic experience for the viewer. It is a film that can be analyzed in depth but no matter how many words I use, it won't be enough to describe the beauty of 'The English Patient'.