Review of The Conspirator (2011) by Jonathan P — 27 May 2011

Predictable and formulaic despite being based on "real events," though how much liberty they took with the reality of the situation remains questionable. Despite this, it's very well acted, especially by Evan Rachel Wood and Kevin Kline, whom I didn't even recognize until about half way through. But whose bright idea was it to cast Justin Long? As the best friend? In a period piece? Come on. I can barely take him seriously in a comedy, let alone a serious drama. A truly terrible casting decision.

Overall, not much to say about this movie. It follows typical story telling conventions, and has some cheesy, downright terrible melodramatic exchanges at times, but, fortunately, not too many. The story is interesting and suspenseful when it sticks to the main plot, particularly if you don't know the history behind the events, which I didn't going into it. It's also well shot and looks period-appropriate. But eh. Nothing special.