Angels and Demons Movie Review
Angels and Demons is the second of Dan Brown's books to be converted to the big screen after The Da Vinci Code. Despite worldwide criticism, I liked the first movie. I wasn't even aware of just how terrible people thought The Da Vinci Code was until the release of Angels and Demons, and it wasn't until I watched Angels and Demons that I realised why I liked the the first movie.
I, like many others, read both books a few years back when they were first released. They were great stories, with lots of twists and turns and, despite what seemed by the fourth book as almost formulaic plotlines, they were an enjoyable read. I felt the same about The Da Vinci Code movie. Nothing I wasn't expecting, but enough variation from the book to make it entertaining. And that's where the problem with Angels and Demons lies for me.
If you've read the book and you're at least somewhat reminiscent of the story, the film adds nothing except the beautiful scenery. The cinematography is great, the acting is fantastic, the music, everything, is at it should be in a Hollywood blockbuster. But, when I left the theatre, I felt like all I'd really gained was a review of everything I knew of the story. It was like I'd watched the film for a second time.
My wife, who I watched the film with, thoroughly enjoyed it; she hasn't read the book. And that's the crux. If you haven't read the book, go and see this film. You'll understand as much of what's going on as if you had read the book, and for that the film must be applauded as, so often, the transition leaves something behind. Unfortunately, if you have read the book, expect nothing more than you already know.
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Paul