distinctly average (Angels and Demons (DVD))

Member Name: rosaliecullen

Product:	Angels and Demons (DVD)
Date:	20/09/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: good backdrops and cinemtaography

Disadvantages: too fast paced, things solved too soon

I really loved the book Angels and Demons by Dan Brown - it is either a prequel or sequel to the Da Vinci Code which has been well received in book form, but the film was a bit too fast paced. Angels and demons was definitely better than the Da Vinci code but not the best adaptation.

The main character is Robert Langdon played by Tom Hanks who has to help the Vatican unravel the mystery of where 4 cardinals (successors to the pope who has just died) are being held captive. I was a little nervous for the film, as there are some fairly gruesome descriptions in the book of things that happen, but luckily they were much toned down in the film so not as bad as I had imagined.

The plot is basically science versus religion, and the other high profile character is played by Ewan McGregor with a god awful Irish accent. I think it is quite difficult to follow as a film. As with the Da Vinci code, the plot unravels slowly in the book, but in the film, they seem that keen to keep action coming that they thrown in high speed car scenes and come to conclusions and solve mysteries far too quickly. It makes it fairly unbelievable.

My other problem with the film is that it doesnt explain a real motive for what happens, and is also different to the book.

I personally think the acting is fine, nothing amazing, but fine. Think Tom Hanks does well as Langdon, but the rest are mediocre. The action scenes and actual filiming, backdrop etc. is awesome and I think there is a good level of detail. One other point that bugged me was Langdon had claustraphobia in the Da Vinici code, which was not at all mentioned in this film - and he chases through narrow gaps without panic - seems a bit odd!

In conclusion, better than the Da Vinci code film, not as good as the angels and demons book, but worth a watch if you are bored for a few hours.

Summary: not bad if you are bored!