Movie: The Constant Gardener
Whether I realize it or not, I have become accostomed to a certain pace of movies. That is, the viewer sees the main thrust of the story within x minutes. Naturally, I do not know when x is, but I know when a movie stretches out that time, as The Constant Gardener did. The movie is a hybrid love-story and espionage story (love stories mixed with things have been popping up lately, given my recent review of Jacket …), and it’s also one that you may not like right away. Characters put you off, mislead you, seem to be much more or much less than they are. The distinction of good and evil on the character level is very blurry, making you second-guess everyone’s words and actions. However, the more global good/evil battle in the movie is a very clear one, and gives the movie a good framework on which to hang these characters’ stories.
All that said, I would watch it again. Though, if you had asked me right away, I would have said I could care less about seeing The Constant Gardener again. I think my change of heart is due to this being a smart movie, one that sticks in your head, and hits deep emotions without silly acoustic music walking scenes or unrealistic speeches. It is consistently (emphasis on consistently, given some movies’ trying to be everything to everyone) subtle, quick-paced, and twisting. It’s no “everyone is out to party for a long weekend” movie, but it is a great “weekend evening thought provoking” show. Highly recommended.