Reviews: Hits and MissesHave you read a book you’d like to share with your neighbours? Do you have an opinion about a new movie that you just can’t keep to yourself? Are you looking for feedback on a CD before you decide to buy – or have you just heard the greatest new tune and you want to let everyone know about it? Well this is the place to express your thoughts on music, movies, theatre, books – whatever you’d like to review – and to find out what your neighbours think about what they are watching, listening to and reading.
Kingdom of Heaven
Kingdom of Heaven is a pretty good war movie.
The first half of the movie was all setup, with not too much of interest going on beyond trying to establish some character for the hero. Which didn't work too well, other than giving me the impression that he's supposed to be really smart and honest and noble - not too bad for a simple blacksmith who had good reason to run from his home village. It seems that everyone involved was just waiting to get on with the battles.
And oh, the battles. They're huge, epic things that turn the gore factor up a notch from the Lord of the Rings. If you thought Braveheart was too much for you, then I'd suggest avoiding Kingdom of Heaven. The things that people do to each other...
And, of course, the theme of the movie would be "the things that people do to each other in the name of God..." There is much debate over the worth of the crusades, and justification for slaughter, and the measure of a man. I found it well-handled, and not too preachy.
So, the movie dramatically wasn't really that outstanding. It wasn't too bad - there was at least some drama, but it didn't really stick. The action was great. The girls will love that Legolas is the main hero.
If you don't mind gore in your war movies, then this is a pretty good one. |
