Z/Web

I thought this was supposed to be a lame modernization of a classic novel, one of those films where they cast a lot of big name stars and the whole thing stinks. It turned out to be a serious, well-done movie. The writing was good, most of the acting was spot on (the casting was excellent), and the story terrific. But there were portions that confused me, either because I don’t know that much about the characters or their time period; I found certain scenes to be rather staged and overdramatic as a result. (Like the ending, where the bad guys suddenly change sides. Their motivation was not well explained.) Cool flick. Might get old on a second viewing (once you know the plot); have to wait and see.

This is one of those films you always hear about but have never seen. I’m glad I did. It’s a little slow, and the silent movie stuff gets hokey and old after a while, but certain portions of the drama are absolutely as contemporary as anything you’ve ever seen. The classic “baby carriage” scene was a bit of a let down — I’ve seen so many remakes and mockeries that it wasn’t as poweful as it should have been. Overall, an amazing film; astonishing that it was made in 1925!