ViewGuide

Created Jul 31, 2011 11:03AM PST • Edited Jul 31, 2011 11:03AM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   Great 4.0

   A very intriguing sci-fi drama about an English boarding school where the kids are raised for a special purpose. Of course, I’ll do my best to avoid spoilers, but suffice it to say that this movie draws you in, and as you lean about what is going on – the movie becomes even more engrossing as you try to figure out why they do what they do, and act like they act. And this is why I really like this movie: because it doesn’t necessarily give you all the answers. Instead, you are left to think things through. Do you remember the last time a movie sparked an animated discussion with your viewing partner(s)? Well, this one did – a hallmark of a very good movie in this viewer’s opinion. At times it is a little slow, but it is a great story, surprising twists, and solid acting talent. Well worth your time.

4. Acting

   Very Good 3.5

   Keira Knightley, Carey Mulligan and Andrew Garfield are all great in this film. Keira is the dramatic one with a self-destructive streak and a sexiness born of low self-esteem (in her character). Carey Mulligan is the centerpiece with a muted and methodical style. Andrew Garfield serves more to be a third-wheel, but decent.

5. Male Stars Very Good 3.5

6. Female Stars Very Good 3.5

7. Female Costars Very Good 3.5

8. Male Costars Very Good 3.5

10. Film

    Great 4.0

    The film is visually beautiful, with a melodramatic music-score that sets the mood. The story is top-notch and the actors were well chosen.

11. Direction Great 4.0

12. Play Great 4.0

13. Music Great 4.0

14. Visuals Great 4.0
15. Content

16. Edge

    Risqué 2.1

17. Sex Titillating 2.1

18. Violence Fierce 2.1

19. Rudeness Salty 2.1

21. Reality

    Surreal 3.0

22. Circumstantial Surreal 3.0

23. Biological Surreal 3.0

24. Physical Surreal 3.0