I Am the Cheese

Not only did this movie have bad acting. But yet it was boring. I read the book in school and found the book really interesting and good. But this...goodness they tried to change some things...they changed the ending. i give this movie sadly... 3 out of 10... and least they tried.

The movie's title and DVD cover kept catching my attention at the movie store. I finally rented it and was not disappointed. I watched it without having heard about the book or anything so I went in unbiased. On its own, I'd say it was quite intriguing. It kept you guessing... even after it ended. The ending was rather unclear, but fascinating and puzzling in a good way. I'd say, if you have read the book, don't spoil the movie for somebody else because you did not think the movie gave the book justice. Just judge the movie on its own. Sure it was low budget, but just appreciate it for its good points--the intriguing plot, the beautiful scenery, and the intense emotion. Over all, I would recommend this movie to anyone who is able to branch out and be adventurous. Just watch it and see if you like it. Judge for yourself.

I read the book in junior high in the 80s and first watched the movie in the 90s while working at a video store. I recently rewatched the movie a few times and still enjoy it. Thoughtful musical score, great scenery, well-acted especially by Robert MacNaughton whose portrayal of loneliness and desperation is outstanding. Yes, it could have benefited from a larger budget (think Running on Empty) but it still works and the lower budget helps capture the bleakness in Adam's life. Not for those looking for a slick Hollywood production but if you enjoy an honest little production made with love you will like it.

After reading several reviews for this film being not only slow, dull, confusing, and bad, I felt obligated to review it myself. To be fair, the movie is slow, dull and confusing but it is not bad. Especially for 1983, I Am the Cheese is a good story that keeps its audience guessing to what is actually happening to the story's main character. Along wtih the movie's plot, the cast as well as the setting for thid story are all equally important to its theme. In many ways, the setting of rural Vermont is as long and dull as its cast. The pacing of the movie is deliberate. Not to bore its audience but to showcase how lost the main chracter is. This is beyond evident with the long takes of endless bicycle scenes that go on way too long. The point the movie is bringing to its audience is like a mouse through the maze, the Cheese is the one who is lost. Yes this can be a boring movie, but its the context of the movie that you need to consider. Not the right movie for everyone, but for those who read the book should be obligated to view it at least once.

I'll admit that this movie, which was based on Robert Cormier's young adult novel, must have been difficult to make. The novel jumped through many time frames and had many scenes which would have been difficult to capture on film. But it simply lacks the subtle horror of the book, and the low budget really shows. Also, why change the ending? The ending of the novel might have been bleaker, but in the movie the ending left many questions unanswered.