Perspectives

It has been a while since I last wrote my movie review. Here’s one from my recent viewing of Angels & Demons, starring Tom Hanks, Ayelet Zurer and Ewan McGregor.

For anyone who has read the book, unfortunately this movie still does not come up to par to the power and punch I received from the written publication. I’m completely biased of course, having read all the Dan Brown novels in the United States with Angels & Demons being my favourite piece of work from the author.

The movie from start to finish is an extremely thrilling ride nevertheless. I don’t recommend it for the weak of heart though as I felt that I was holding my breath throughout the movie. It’s fast-paced, intense, full of action and contained some gruesome scenes depicting the murder of the Preferiti (cardinals who are considered to be the most likely candidates in the election of a new pope). It was hideous enough for me to feel sick in the theater.

I felt that Tom Hanks played Robert Langdon better than the first film. He seemed more comfortable in the role and seemed to understand his character much better. It was unfortunate however that in this film, the director failed to draw out the chemistry between Tom and his female lead as it was a crucial element in the book.

The scenes filmed for the Vatican City was splendid however, depicting an age-old religion that has both terrified and awed human civilization for centuries. That was indeed one of the winning ingredients for me when I read this novel as I was enthralled by the rich history as well as the intricacies of the Roman Catholic Church.

It makes me wonder today, what kind of mysteries would I uncover if I were ever allowed inside the vatican walls to explore its history? This is despite me being a protestant Christian!

My ratings: 6/10