deedee2005

I had been waiting for this film for ages, but 35 minutes into the film I had to leave because of the jerky, hand-held camera work, jump shots, etc. Why oh why did they have to do this? This kind of camera work is okay in certain situations -the Africa crowd scenes, etc., but to go on and on, even when it is unnecessary was very rough on my system. From what I saw of the film, however, I was very impressed with the performances by all, especially Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weiss. If I can find an older theater that has more than 30 rows I might be able to handle it, or just wait for the DVD. What a disappointment!!! So now I am working my way through the book. Directors, please be aware of how your cameras may affect the people who love films! Some of us just cannot handle that kind of motion. We aren't at sea, were in a movie theater!

Having been an Anthony Quinn fan for many years, I came across this video recently and rented it. I wasn't sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised to see quite a different performance from Quinn. While he had moments of gruffness, for the most part he tackled this role as the confused, tormented Barrabas with a great deal of inner work. The most impressive moments where when his face reflected the conflicts of belief, choice, and commitment. As one of the most famous individuals in history it was an imaginative characterization of Barrabas, much like the other enigmatic individual in Christianity -Judas- as characterized by Ian McShane in Jesus of Nazareth (1977).

Wonderful music score, and cinematography. Notice especially the care given to the staging of the scourging of Jesus in the beginning of the film -silence except for Heaven's angels screaming in anguish. Breathtaking.

I didn't know anybody in this film except Terence Stamp who has such fantastic screen presence he can act in anything and hold a film together just by being there. I too kept thinking the female lead was Rosilinni or another Juliette Binoche wannabe. The whole sub-plot story was a stupid device that didn't work at all. Whaaaaa??? Whose brilliant idea was that? Back to Terence Stamp. I saw him years ago in Billy Budd and The Collector, then . . . . ..no Terence for years. I just recently rediscovered him in several brilliant films -Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Limey, and The Hit. You have to see these films. Terence is absolutely fantastic. I couldn't quite figure out what was so intriguing about him until I realized he just oozes a certain serenity and presence onthe screen, and then his voice has changed over the years. I've never heard a voice quite like his. And, as a woman, I think he is one of the most handsome men walking the face of the earth. I certainly hope he continues making films, and doesn't go into retirement now that he has married a 26 yr. old woman.