NIGHT TRAIN TO LISBON
Raimund Gregorius (Jeremy Irons) is a high school teacher leading an uninspiring life as a divorcee until he rescues a lady from jumping off a bridge. His obsession with a book he finds in her jacket is the catalyst to an adventure in Lisbon. There he revisits a political chapter in Portugal’s history and a mix of adventure, romance, and intrigue ultimately restores his faith in life.
Night Train To Lisbon is successful on a dramatic literary platform, but fails to ignite on film. Mystery and suspense quickly deflate owing to a tedious story downgraded by laborious storytelling techniques that involve extended flashbacks and voice-overs.
Flawless performances by a brilliant cast and exquisite cinematography showcasing the panoramic views of Portugal don’t compensate for a mundane script. (MM)
** 1/2
Limited release