flat

Rating: 5/10 (16 September 2014)

Not a bad concept, having never seen this explored on film before. There is a combination of historical accuracy and Hollywood license in this film, which depicts a group of art aficionados who pursue great works stolen by Hitler during WWII. What the film has going for it is a unique story and great cinematography. What's missing is that all of the characters are flat, without much zest or emotion, neither positive or negative. One would think that non-soldiers risking their lives for the preservation and proper return of centuries old art would act more passionately about their task.
For example, we never see the pathway to redemption of one of the group of six, who gives his life on this mission - that aspect is too lightly glossed over. Instead we see more muted performances, and a waste of talent from the likes of John Goodman, Bob Balaban, and Bill Murray. Even the last German officer who destroys one of the remaining mines where many pieces are stowed seems to have no motivation for his actions. The one bright spot in the movie was Cate Blanchett, who gives an impassioned performance and is about the only believable character we see.