Movie Review: Kingdom of Heaven

OK, OK. I'm a sucker for big budget, Summer blockbusters. But, I have to say, the amount of time spent watching this movie was "epic," not the film itself!

Now, not that this movie was bad. But, it certainly was not good. And it had much of what was needed to make a good movie: an epic story (the defense of Jerusalem by the Christians from the Sarazens); some good actors (Jeremy Irons; Liam Neeson; Orlando Bloom). Orlando Bloom, bless his heart, just couldn't carry this film.

One of the problems is when we, as an audience, already know how the story ends. So, we have to be treated to what we don't already know -- usually the psychology of the characters. What this film did was to focus more on the action, and less on the emotions and relationships of the characters. In the end, I really didn't care much for anyone -- except perhaps Saladin, the Sarazen Sultan, who showed much honor and civility during warfare.

When Bloom made his motivational speech to his followers to convince them that fighting the overwhelming odds was worth the trouble, I just knew that this was the tear-jerking moment that we've all been manipulated towards... and then it just fell flat.

Perhaps it was that by this point, we're 2-hours plus into the film, with no end in near sight. Does tend to taint the judgment a bit...

Anyway, if you absolutely must see this film, go to a matinee... you'll be far less disappointed. Oh, and don't drink a large soda -- not only are they outrageous rip-offs, but also, you'll be in utter pain unless you're willing to leave the theater to use the restroom.

Cheers!