"O"

Starring: Mekhi Phifer, Josh Hartnett, Julia Stiles, Elden Henson, Andrew Keegan, Rain Phoenix, Anthony "A.J." Johnson, John Heard, Martin Sheen
Directed by: Tim Blake Nelson
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
2001

Times Seen:
Tim: 1


Summary: Updated version of William Shakespeare's Othello has Odin James (Mekhi Phifer) a high school basketball star dating Desi, the Dean's daughter (Julia Stiles). His perfect world begins to be turned upside down as the basketball coach's son, Hugo (Josh Hartnett) begins to plot a diabolical scheme to break up Odin and Desi, and ruin Odin's life forever.

Review:

Tim: The first thing to mention about this film is that it is based on Othello, a Shakespeare play. It already has one thing going for it. Any movie based on a Shakespeare play cannot be all that bad- you know it will have drama, tragedy, betrayal, love, etc. The film does an excellent job bringing drama to the audience.

To get away from the gripping drama for a moment, the film also displays some amazing basketball scenes. In a film that is focused on so much else, it is important to pay attention to some great moves on the court.

One aspect of the film I want to stress to viewers is that I want you to pay special attention to the character of Odin James, and whether you like him or not, and more imporantly, why. I think asking yourself this question gets to a deeper meaning in the film, as well as Shakespeare's play.

I really enjoyed Josh Hartnett in this film. I think he had the most interesting character, and plays the devious role perfectly.

This film is so interesting because it shows what happens when you try to ruin someone's life. The people in this movie have been played by Hartnett's character in every possible way. While it is horrible, it is also beautiful as to the genius involved in it. I think you'll enjoy this film.

scene was a complete disappointment. After seeing "Save the Last Dance," we all know what Julia is capable of in the dancing department. Honestly, was she half-asleep or did she just forget how to move?

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Save the Last Dance, The American President, 10 Things I Hate About You