Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Angels and Demons (2009)

The Expectation:
So I know that this is one of the major blockbuster films out there this summer. It is hard not to know that, even if you don't like films, and thus my expectations lie in accordance with this knowledge. Blockbusters come with their own formula- lots of action, traditional narratives, big stars, .... You get it. I also read the book. This was the main reason for my journey to see the film. That and I also happen to have a real nasty cold, and thus, I went out to see the big blockbuster for a much needed escape from reality- and free popcorn Tuesdays!

The Result:
This film is exactly what I thought it would be. Although I saw the first one in Amsterdam so a lot of the dialogue was lost on me through Dutch subtitles, I could tell you right away that Tom Hanks is a horrible Robert Langdon. Whoever cast him in that role should be shot. Up close. Robert Langdon is suave and charming, knowledgeable without being pretentious. Tom Hanks makes him into a creepy old dude with a horrible receading hairline. There is no room for sexual tension in this film. The lead female is sad-her role seems contrived and insensitive-if only because the already over packed plot leaves no room for her backstory (and Hanks gives her no reason to be relevant to his character). But there is no shortage of suspense and intrigue. Ron Howard directs the film like it is any other big Hollywood blockbuster- one moves from plot point to plot point rapidly and the suspense builds fast enough that you have no time to realize that you already know what is going to happen and who will end up with the blame at the end. And the tour through Rome leaves me nostalgic and it is the only reason I suddenly want this film to be greater than it is- to reflect the great majestic quality of the city. Instead, the plot is more important than the underlying messages and the great masses of Christian fans come off as pithy and easily deceived. The film hints that preserving the perception of ritual is greater than the ritual's reality. In this way, the film embodies that message- preserving the great Hollywood style (and economic engine) so that it has the hope of remaining sustainable. Please, read the book instead- you learn more about history and you still get that great suspense. Or if you are sick, dive in all the way into the conventions- get popcorn.