"Der Name der Rose" takes us back into a Benedictine monastery in the year 1327 a.d. One of the monks dies under mysterious circumstances, and the Franciscan monk William of Baskerville and his apprentice Adso of Melk are asked to investigate the matter. While more and more monks are being murdered, which leads some to the conclusion that the apocalypse is near, William is slowly discovering the truth behind the terrible murders, revealing corruption and perversity going on in the monastery. But William must find the truth quick, as the infamous inquisitor Bernardo Gui is sent by the Vatican to investigate the incidents, and he is well known for acting mercilessly... I haven't read the novel the movie is based on, but nevertheless, "Der Name der Rose" is an outstanding movie with few to none flaws. But what makes this flick so great? Above all, it's the fact that we get a historically accurate and shocking glimpse at the circumstances in medieval monasteries. There's nothing holy or in the name of God; most of the monks are ignorant or perverse. Then, of course, the actors in this one are magnificent, with Sean Connery shining throughout the movie and proving that he is one of the greatest actors alive; he brings the intelligent yet arrogant William of Baskerville to life. But one has to give the other actors credit as well, especially those playing the almost insane monks (Berenger, anyone?). Yet it is sad to see what has happened to Christian Slater: in this one, he shows that he indeed is a talented actor, but today he ends up in crap like "Alone in the Dark". The storyline is very intriguing (yet I don't know how faithful it is to the book), thanks to a great script and the film's perfect pacing. There's no scene that feels too long or too short; and the slower paced scenes are in perfect balance with the faster and more intense sequences. The movie also takes its time to introduce and deepen the characters. This, along with a dark and fascinating mood and a fitting soundtrack, creates an atmosphere that sucks you into the storyline. Honestly, I can't think of any flaws in "Der Name der Rose". Congratulations, Monsieur Annaud. You have created a masterpiece.
Review of The Name of the Rose
