Review of The Name of the Rose (1986) by Xgary X — 11 Jul 2011

In this adaptation of Umberto Eco's celebrated novel, Franciscan friar Sean Connery investigates a series of bizarre murders in a monastery in the 14th century. Aside from the rather unusual subject matter, this is a unique film in that it does not feature the usual starlets and pretty boy actors populating a glossy Hollywood-ized version of history; it actually looks and feels like a working Medieval abbey.

And as such, the monks will win no beauty competitions! Most of them would look perfectly at home adorning the abbey walls with the rest of the gargoyles! This just adds to the already potent atmosphere, and in one of his best roles, Sean Connery commands the screen as well as the able supporting cast including the ever reliable Ron Perlman as the demented hunchback.

The story explores the theme of religious intolerance and climate of hysteria in which a reasonable minded man of learning can find it impossible to function within; "justice" is doled out by self-appointed prophets who dare not be opposed on pain of death, and blind faith and superstition replace logic and reason.

Let's face it, things haven't changed much over the centuries. Add some wonderfully literary and witty dialogue and fascinating historical insights, and you have a film that works both as an excellent adaptation and a satisfying murder mystery.