Is it all coming from her book or his mind?

Rating: 6/10 (23 November 2006)

Unlike "Requiem" I found this film to be upsetting, upsetting because the style overpowered its substance. In "Requiem" the universe and many of its forces are destroyed by the fragility of our abilities to resist the darkness that can annihilate us. It is tragic to see how four individuals are ripped to pieces as drugs take over their lives. There is, ironically, beauty in the way the director presented that horrible tragedy.
Here we are dealing with more beauty, but it is all disfigured by the presentation, a movie that should have immeasurable power, is delivered mangled by the way, magnificent performances, a lovely score, and a terrific idea, fall secondary to some very interesting special effects and some confusing editing. There is so much potential in the way the story hints come across, and somehow, we are left with a very repetitive delivery of sequences that do not have any new meaning as more is "revealed" about the story line. Instead, they feel repetitive and burdensome.
The effect is puzzling because we have some strong acting by both Jackman and his leading lady, Weitz. They look believable and shouldn't become a problem because they are fantastic actors and not stars. They are attractive and effective in their parts, and here is where the problems are. Their acting doesn't complement or enhance the story. It shows how weak the narrative is.
It starts promising, as we are witnessing some spectacular and violent odyssey in the middle of the Mayan lands, soon we're pulled into some existential worlds that might or not exist, and before we know it, we are dealing with some tremendous amount of suffering and guilt, and yet, it feels hollow as the film never takes flight.
There should be more buy in about the power of their love since it appears to transcend time and matter, but a terrific score and very good acting is not nearly enough in this case. There is not enough concern with the need for a great script. It is not all a matter of style. It should be a perfect marriage of both. Too bad, since this film was coming with so many expectations. Maybe next time, we can get some more of the real thing.