Review of The Name of the Rose (1986) by Marcus S — 24 Jun 2008

I first saw this film many years ago and decided to watch it again on DVD the other week. I liked it then and I like it now. At times it does feel like a medieval Sherlock Holmes, but with Sean Connery in the lead it makes things more believeable.

Although I am not religious, the insight into the lives on monks and the differrent orders in very interesting. The style, sets and locations give a real sense of desolation, and an ironic feeling of godlessness. Certainly the beliefs and practices show just how corrupt, fearful and barbaric the times were.

Standout performances from Sean, F. Murray Abraham and Ron Pearlman.