Review of Atlas Shrugged: Part I (2011) by Gabby — 17 Apr 2011

Good for fans and dissenters alike! Put your politics and opinions of Rand aside because you won't need them here. This film, above all else, entertains. Overall, it's a great achievement and an above-average film.

Yes, it has issues with timing and the delivery of lines from the book that come across as stilted and unnatural. But no more than when Nicholas cage starts speaking in 1776 vernacular in the "National Treasure" films.

The main leads are well played and the film is true to the story, though horribly lacking in detail and background. But the pace is wonderful once it picks up steam and it is as captivating visually as it is in its storyline.

The beginning and ending were both abrupt and it felt like the jolt one feels from a rollercoaster. But the ride itself was not so much exhilarating as it was suspenseful. If they ever make a "part 2" ( and I hope to the Flying Spaghetti Monster that they do), I hope they work out the kinks and the sense of urgency felt in the production of this installment.

If you want a wild ride, explosions, naked aliens or slo-mo CGI effects, then spend your money elsewhere. But if you want compelling dialogue, interesting characters and a film that will remain in your head long after you leave the cineplex, then you'd do fine buying a ticket to see "Atlas Shrugged" And an added bonus will be that those who attend this film are polite, mature and tend to respect those around them.

Something you'll never enjoy if you see the likes of "Rio" or "Scream 4".