The Ninth Gate

Dean Corso (Johnny Depp,) an unscrupulous rare book hunter, is hired by a wealthy occultist (Frank Langella) to authenticate a book reputably written by the Devil having the power to open the gates of hell, raising the Prince of Darkness himself. And he's not the only one chasing the myth, a dark order is seeking to use the book and will stop at nothing to obtain it. Corso soon finds that he's out of his depth when the mystery surrounding the book manifests and he both fears for his life and considers damning his soul.

Dry, dusty and slow is how I would initially describe the tenor of The Ninth Gate. The film's setup and introduction lacks a hook to draw in the audience, relying on its musical score, photography and main star to draw attention rather than a compelling story: it's blase, simply. The action, meant to thrill and heighten interest, fails to do so, coming off campy. And the characters, with whom we're to connect, are strangely "cardboardy," failing to have the real depth that allows for the emotional release needed at the climax.

And granted he's fantastic in every role he's played (it's really a puzzlement why he keeps being passed over for the Oscar Podium) and here is no different: Mr Depp's work fails to stir me as he usually does . It's really not his fault, the sufficient material to work from is lacking. The photography and framing is exquisite; a frozen frame from any part of this film might be printed for any photo collection or created into a fabulous coffee table book. The production designer is the best part of the whole picture. The film score, is above average--not inspiring, nor boring--simply filling in the necessary silence in dialogue with a delicate efficiency. The mechanics of the package aren't to blame.

And while I haven't read the book upon which this film is based, I'm guessing something was lost transmogrifying the story to screen; not all stories belong on celluloid, perhaps this one should have remained in the pages where inspiration breathed.

***

In: Johnny Depp

Out: James Russo

Coming Soon: Public Enemies