The Count Of Monte Cristo Is A Riveting And Spectacular Remake

Over the years there have been nine films, and two miniseries produced on The Count Of Monte Cristo, based on the 19^th century work of Alexandre Dumas, and the latest version directed by Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de la Patelliere has stormed the French box office.

The reason for this is simple – The Count Of Monte Cristo is a timeless historical adventure period drama which has captivated audiences with its universal themes of vengeance, betrayal, justice, redemption and forgiveness, and continues to resonate across generations.

For readers not familiar with this story it’s set in France, Italy and the Mediterranean Islands in 1815 and surrounds a young sailor named Edmond Dantes who’s about to wed Mercedes, the love of his life, after being promoted to captain of a ship.

Jealousies arise amongst his rivals and Edmond is falsely imprisoned without a trial under suspicion of being a member of a pro-Napoleon conspiracy – a traitor to the nation. He learns of a hidden treasure on an island named Monte Cristo from a prisoner he has befriended.

After years of incarceration, he accomplishes the impossible; he escapes, finds the treasure and transforms into the mysterious and filthy rich Count Of Monte Cristo, ultimately returning to society with the intention of avenging the three men who conspired having him convicted – notably his cousin who desired Mercedes.

Is this retribution or justice? Will Mercedes recognize Edmond if they cross paths after so many years apart? But more importantly, will he succeed in his endeavours?

There’s something quite special about this ambitious and visually stunning production. Epic, bold and compelling, this is spectacular and mandatory viewing on the big screen.

Pierre Niney leads an exceptional cast as The Count Of Monte Cristo, his performance compounding to the artistically sublime nature of the movie. The mammoth production is credited with two directors, highlighting the enormity of the project.

Moviegoers whose mission is to find faults or unrealistic elements in the storytelling may lament of the face masks Edmond wears to change identity during the course of his quest for vengeance. Not only does the mask change his identity but also his physique in some scenes shedding credibility.

The face mask was utilized to alter identities in the Mission Impossible franchise which was laughable and for many this may degrade the cinematic enjoyment of the movie. Once credibility is shattered disinterest might filter through, and it may be difficult reconnecting to the story.

At a running time of just under 3 hours this may also be too lengthy for some viewers even though it’s riveting and fast moving.

***1/2

In Cinemas Now