Starring: James Franco, Sophia Myles, and Rufus Sewell
Although not the strongest script, the lack of coherence is redeemed by strong performance. With a back story similar to that of Troy and Romeo and Juliet, war between Britain’s tribes and Ireland is at hand. The strong emotion and conviction of lovers torn are well performed by James Franco as Tristan and Sophia Myles as Isolde.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, a treaty is attempted to unite the tribes of Britain against the Irish King. The treaty is not completed because the Irish attack the meeting, killing young Tristan’s parents. English orphan Tristan grows up to be very handy with a weapon under the wing of the British King. After a battle with the Irish, Tristan is presumed dead and lands on the shores of Ireland. He is nursed back to health by Isolde, the Irish King’s daughter, and the two of them fall passionately in love. As complications arise, the British King and Isolde are wed and Tristan is heart broken. As in most Shakespeare like tragedies a secret love affair occurs in which the climax takes root and a resolution of death takes place.
The Irish King gives a convincing portrayal of a ruthless man who would eventually disown his daughter. Unfortunately, along with this great performance, a noticeable inconsistency is displayed with the passing of time. It is confusing at times about how long has passed between certain scenes.There are some incoherent scenes through out the film that are coupled with
weak dialogue but redeemed by strong acting performances by James
Franco, Sophia Myles, and Rufus Sewell. The choreography for the fight scenes are performed well giving the film a well needed dose of excitement.
Recommendation: Rent it!
