Review of The Ninth Gate (1999) by C.r. L — 18 Oct 2009

I love conspiracy thrillers there the best kind to watch. One man gets way too deep into something and the only thing he can do to get out of it is find whatever it is that got him into it in the first place. In Johnny Depp's case it is a book that everyone wants. The Ninth Gate id an eerie, smart, complex, well thought out film that shouldn't be watched lightly.

The Ninth Gate is not something a really call, "A must see", due to it's plot's undertone about a book written by the devil. But the main plot is not so involved in that as it is in the conspiracy of it. Which makes it a good and then it doesn't, but this film is engrossing on many levels and is highly entertaining thanks to Johnny Depp and the supporting players. But all in all this is a highly charged, globe trotting adventure is sure to entertain Conspiracy buffs and fans of Johnny Depp. But none the less not a bad movie.

Johnny Depp(who was a little bland and emotion less here.) does very good with his part as Dean Corso the rare book mercenary caught up in the supernatural conspiracy surrounding a very dangerous book written by the devil himself( One reason not to see this movie if you believe in God or are a Christian like me.) But Johnny does well with his role and makes his character very likable as the film progress. Frank Langella is another class act in this film, he plays his character with such distaste and arrogance that you can't help but just hate his guts. Lean Olin is the weak link in this film, it could have very well done without her narcissistic and very bland character to bring down the film. But all in all the cast holds up nicely and does well with there parts.

The Ninth Gate is not a great film, but is a good film at that. It follows a very coherent and comprehensible storyline that is not easy to stomach or like, but it is very enjoyable none the less. Johnny Depp is not at his best here but he does very well in this and makes this the only high point of seeing it. Other than that this film is very passable and forgettable it isn't a Polanski great like Chinatown but it is a good film to watch. None the less The Ninth Gate is passing entertainment.