The Count of Monte Cristo

Starring: Jim Caviezel, Guy Pearce, Richard Harris, Luis Guzman
Directed by: Kevin Reynolds
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
2002

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: Dantes (Jim Caviezel) is betrayed by his friend (Guy Pearce) and sentenced to a lifetime of prison for a crime he did not commit. During his thirteen years in jail, he meets another prisoner (Richard Harris) who imparts his wisdom on him, and telling him of a great treasure. Dantes escapes prison, transforms himself into the Count of Monte Cristo, bent on revenge on those who wronged him.

Review:

Tim: This is a film that started with an incredible source- Alexander Dumas' literary masterpiece. From here, the adaptation to the screen is flawless- all the excitement, drama, and adventure of the book easily makes the leap onto the big screen. This says a lot of everyone involved.

Jim Caviezel is absolutely stunning as the titular count. He had to do quite a bit as his character changes throughout the film. This was not an easy role, yet Caviezel looks like he's be playing this role for fifty years- that's how comfortable he appears. Guy Pearce makes an outstanding bad guy, and is so enjoyable to watch, as he really goes a long way to making this movie work.

The film is simply incredible. The movie moves along at a quick pace, alternatively giving us moments of action, adventure, drama, romance, and comedy. It is impressive how this film has so many different elements that are spun and interwoven in superb fashion, where each adds to the other to result in an incredibly enjoyable film.

The Count of Monte Cristo is a solid, well made film that proves to be far more enjoyable than you could imagine. Whenever I can catch this movie, I end up watching five minutes, and then become so engrossed that I can barely tear myself away from it. That is the mark of a great movie. This is a terrific movie that works on nearly every single level and surpasses all expectations.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Brotherhood of the Wolf, The Thin Red Line, The Three Musketeers