Review of Beyond the Sea (2004) by Ken B — 24 Aug 2009

Unique but not particularly engaging, "Beyond the Sea" spends more time telling the viewer a story than making the viewer a part of the story. At least from this writer's perspective, this movie would have been better served by taking its time on one or two periods in Darin's life and relying upon the acting talents of its capable cast, instead of rushing through roughly four decades of a life with gimmicky flashbacks and uncomfortable dance numbers.

There are redeeming qualities, however. As mentioned, the cast play their parts well, though the story is too rushed for them or their audience to get comfortable with their characters. The music itself is fantastic, even if the bizarre, musical-esque, spontaneous dance routines do more to hinder the film than help. Fans of Darin will probably find it a fitting tribute to his ambition, passion, and talent. Non-fans will be mildly amused at best, mildly bored at worst.