Review of Atlas Shrugged: Part I (2011) by Dan S — 30 Apr 2011

Since I find ideas of liberty to be attractive, I saw this movie twice, spacing out the viewings by 15 days. On the second viewing I was still very impressed, given the constraints the movie makers had in making the film.

The good: the cinematography is breathtaking (you need to see this movie in the movie theater, not at home); the story holds together (which most recent Hollywood movies don't seem to understand the importance of); the pace is good; the sound and music are very good; overall acting.

The bad: some scenes that needed another retake (thankfully there are not many of these); the Hank Rearden character needed more development (a man having his many companies taken way by the government should be a little more upset).

So overall, the movie makers did a great job. I have been so disappointed in recent Hollywood movies that it is refreshing to see an independent movie with a small budget put forth such a compelling movie.

Two thumbs up.