Review of The Ninth Gate (1999) by Liz — 27 Jul 2011

An intriguing concept and with Polanski at the helm, nothing short of a must-see. Sadly, the expectations were too high. Finding myself deeply involved in the film and its characters, the ending resulted in utter disappointment. With unnecessary confusion and no plausible theory for the ending, the film needs to be recreated.

Soaked in Polanski suspense and unease, the entire viewing is pit-of-the-stomach unnerving. The entire viewing you find yourself oddly opposed to Dean Corso, amazingly portrayed by Johnny Depp, but completely accepting of all he does. The sarcastic quips and entertainingly dark thought process the character had were bitter-sweet. Moments of the film were spent admiring Depp's performance, and others were spent wrapped up in the film. Sadly, it wasn't a film easy to lose yourself entirely in.

Frank Langella was.... average. Lena Olin was more average. Emmanuelle Seigner was the only actor, besides Depp himself, who managed to impress, and she impressed fully.

Compelling and well rounded, the plot left just enough secret to keep the audience guessing and intent on the ending. Sadly, as I have previously mentioned, the ending was sorely lacking.

Though not as thrilling or edge-of-your-seat as many other Polanski films it was certainly twisted and turning at all the right places. Overall, a must-see for any Depp, Polanski, or Suspense fan.