Kingdom of Heaven doesn't Bloom for me (Kingdom of Heaven (DVD))

Member Name: pmcds

Product:	Kingdom of Heaven (DVD)
Date:	20/03/08 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good support acting and scenery

Disadvantages: Some poor acting and unconvincing directing

Having successfully tackled the Roman era with Gladiator in 2000, Ridley Scott here turns his directing hand to Jerusalem with Kingdom of Heaven (2005). With Russell Crowe his hero in Gladiator, he has Orlando Bloom to work with here as the hero who comes from nothing to lead an army.

The Plot

In medieval Jerusalem ion the 12th Century, there is unrest during the Crusades. Balian, a blacksmith, travels to Jerusalem to join the quest of Sir Godfrey, and to fulfil his destiny as a Knight. He finds himself leading the defense of the city against the might of Saladin in a tale of deep determination and belief.

The Cast and Performances

Orlando Bloom plays the lead Balian, and although he does so with ability, you never believe him as a hero. He seems rather weak, to be honest. There are good performances that keep the story going, and celebrated British actors such as Jeremy Irons and David Thewlis give more solid performances. Liam Neeson is good as Sir Godfrey. The supporting and many extras help the film to be believeable.

My Opinion

I don't know whether I was in the wrong frame of mind for watching this film, but I felt distinctly disappointed by both Ridley Scott and his lead Orlando Bloom. The supporting cast of experienced actors bolster what should be a decent film, and there are moments I describe as 'feel-good'. However, the moments of rousing speeches and piognancy don't stand out from the rest, and I think this has a lot to do with a mediochre performance from Bloom. This is not one of my favourites.

Conclusion

Decent enough tale, weak performances in places.

I rate this film as 2 stars.

The VHS is hard to find, as most are now, but you can pick up a DVD copy from amazon.co.uk for £4.98.

This review may also be posted on ciao.co.uk.

Thanks for reading.

Summary: Kingdom of Heaven (2005) - a disappointment