Review of The Ninth Gate (1999) by Nathan C — 02 Nov 2010

Johnny Depp plays outside of his usual typecast role as a rare book dealer to figure out the secrets of a Satanic book that will lead him straight to the Devil. Don't watch this expecting an action flick (as the commercials market) or a scary movie (as the DVD describes), or you will not be happy with it one bit.

The Ninth Gate's more of a puzzle thriller with a Gothic flavor, just to let you know. Depp turns in a great performance as that sleazy bastard as the rest of the cast does a fine job. This film has a damn good (but repetitive) score, as well as excellent photography in Portugal and [mostly] France.

The intelligence in the film has an affinity towards literature and Satanist theology, which fits neatly with the movie's well-developed plot. It's atmospheric, making the whole thing seem kinda creepy.

However, it takes up too much of its sweet little time just getting to the good stuff (but unfortunately there's a weak payoff at the end), the effects are kinda cheesy (haha that French girl just flying out of nowhere), and some unnecessary parts are prevalent and should've been cut out of its 2 1/4 hour length.

Plus, the conclusion seems pointless (again, weak payoff) and confusing, but leaves room for discussion. Altogether, the movie isn't too bad and has good execution. To appreciate it, you gotta have an interest in the subject matter.