The Count of Monte Cristo
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)
Alexandre Dumas is one of France’s most acclaimed authors and playwrights, best known for The Three Musketeers. Yet, his novel The Count of Monte Cristo contunes to fascinate fans and critics alike. It is a tale that has stood the test of time and continues to garner new readers who resonate with the story of betrayal, justice, and comeuppance.
Edmond Dantès, played brilliantly by Pierre Niney, is a man who has risen above his station and looks to be the youngest ship captain in Marseille. Yet, as he is about to marry Mercédès Herrera (Anaïs Demoustier), the woman of his dreams and formally outside his place in society, the sailor is arrested for being a traitor. Despite his innocence, three men plot to have him imprisoned in the notorious prison, Château d'If. As all seems lost after years on the island penitentiary, Edmond comes in contact with Abbé Faria (Pierfrancesco Favino), who educates the young man and eventually shares with him the mystery of the island of Monte Cristo. After a fateful escape from the island, the wronged man travels to the legendary location. When he discovers its secrets, Edmond plots his revenge.
This French production, adapted and directed by Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de La Patellière, is considered one of the most expensive in the country’s history. Yet, this classic tale does not disappoint as it unfolds on screen in magnificent cinematography and performances. Every visual effect, action sequence, and personal confrontation was planned with exceptional skill and mastery. The beautiful scenery captures the essence of this storyline without distracting from the intimate nature of each step of this long-game procurement of justice. Despite clocking in at 178 minutes, no time was wasted in developing and communicating Dumas’ classic tale that has weathered well over the years.
Every aspect of this film rivals any Hollywood production. It adds another layer of authenticity as it remains in the original language. Pierre Niney carries this film through each act with a performance with talent that extends beyond his years. He takes on three roles and is hidden behind masks that would make the team a Mission: Impossible blush with envy. He is supported by an outstanding cast who complement and embody their characters with the depth each deserves. There is little to fault about The Count of Monte Cristo as it proves to be one of the best productions of the year and honours Alexandre Dumas' work through every minute, which showcases the beauty of France and its history.
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Reel Revenge: Entertaining, but is it Biblical?
Listen to Al Stewart’s look into this topic, which has plagued mankind since the beginning of time.
We enjoy watching movie heroes get their revenge. Yet, in reality, revenge is not pretty—it's destructive.
The Bible gives us three very clear reasons not to take revenge, all based on what we know about God. These reasons are both a comfort and a challenge.
Bible reference(s): Romans 12:17-21, 13:1-5; Ephesians 4:32
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