Review of Sanctum (2011) by Ryan O — 14 Aug 2011

Critics weren't very nice to this film and on the one hand, I don't understand why. On the other hand, as the film progressed I can see where they may have found one or several reasons to really dislike this movie. While Sanctum isn't the best thing that has been made, it's certainly not the worst either. In fact, who doesn't like a good action/adventure film from time to time? The best thing about Sanctum is that it portrays exactly what it's supposed to be - pure escapist film making and on most levels it succeeds.

The dialogue can be weak and cheesy - with characters exclaiming such things like - "This cave isn't going to beat me." And on some levels its predictable. You've seen this type of movie before. That doesn't take away form the fact that I liked it....no wait - I kinda loved it.

The cinematography is beautiful - especially in the beginning. At the root of it all, this is a film that was "inspired by a true story" -- which means, the writers took a true event, and then spun it in such a way that takes most true aspects out - and added elements to make it more dramatic, tragic, or adventure-some. I'm ok with this fact.

As I was watching this film, I was thinking of giving it at least 3.5 stars -- but by the 3rd act, it all started to fall apart. It was as if the writers had written themselves into a corner and they couldn't get out without adding some schlock. They should have stuck to more of the survival aspect of the story - and gone with it.

Nonetheless, I liked Sanctum. It's not nearly as bad as some would lead you to believe. I enjoyed it for what it was - an adventure story. The caves are awesome and I would love to visit them someday. Bottom line - this is a story of man vs. nature.....sometimes nature wins, other times, man gets the upper hand, regardless, its how they get there that matters.

I say check it out.