Review of The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer (2003) by Johanna K — 01 Jan 2008
The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer is the prequel to Stephen King's "Rose Red", however it hasn't been written by King and unfortunately this shows. It's a well-made, and at times interesting story, but a rather unnecessary and bland introduction to the film it is dwarfed by in style and content.
Much of the "flashback" content of Rose Red is simply replyed here, and filled in and padded-out with extra dialogue. There are some interesting scenes; however the actuality of what happened to the people who disappeared in the house turns out somewhat lamer than hinted at in "Rose Red".
A lot of the story centres around the deteriorating relationship between Ellen and her husband, and the friendship between her and her African housekeeper/companion. This also takes away some of the mystique of the housekeeper that was suggested in "Rose Red".
Nevertheless it's not a bad watch, and I enjoyed it, despite being a little disappointed having just watched the altogether more powerful "Rose Red". "Diary" has been sexed-up a little in comparison (giving it an unnecessary '15' rating as opposed to Rose Red's '12') - but it's still not a patch on "Rose Red".
This review of The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer (2003) was written by Johanna K on 01 Jan 2008.
The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer has generally received mixed reviews.
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