Tristan + Isolde (2006) - Starring James Franco, Sophia Myles, Rufus Seawell, David O'Hara, Mark Strong, Henry Cavill. Written by Dean Georgaris. Directed by Kevin Reynolds. Rated PG-13. Available on DVD.
Set during the 5th century as Great Britain and Ireland are at war with each other, Tristan + Isolde tells the story of Tristan (Franco), the second in line to the throne of Britain, and Isolde, the daughter of the king of Ireland, and their illicit affair during the war and once she is married to the king of Britain. This marriage is a political one and it's to Tristan's king, which makes the affair even more scandalous, as it threatens to destroy the peace that has been made.
The film feels evocative of the tale of Romeo and Juliet (a fact that is referenced in the film's marketing). The story is compelling enough, but is heavily built upon coincidence. Franco gives a good performance in the first half of the film as the honorable Tristan, but becomes sullen in the last half of the film. His sullenness is understandable but becomes grating as Franco continues to make the same facial expression scene after scene. Sophia Myles gives a good performance as the object of his affection, the beautiful Isolde, and it makes me want to see her in more roles. Also interesting to see is a pre-Superman Henry Cavill.
The sword-fighting scenes in this film I found were well-done and I did enjoy the story. It felt very familiar, but in a good way. It might have gone on a bit too long and I can't really say I like Tristan's choice at the end of the film, but it was enjoyable.
Rating: 3 out of a 5.
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