The Comedians (2005) Review in 2025
The Comedians is a 2005 film based on the novel by Graham Greene, starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Rose Byrne. The movie follows the story of a young writer who becomes embroiled in the politics of Haiti.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes and graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of drama and thriller genres, particularly those interested in historical and political themes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The Comedians is a gripping drama that explores the complexities of power, corruption, and morality in the context of Haiti's tumultuous history. The film's climax features a dramatic confrontation between the protagonist and the ruthless dictator, leading to a shocking twist that changes the course of the story.
Review Details
story7.50/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, exploring complex themes of power, corruption, and morality. However, the pacing is sometimes slow, and the plot twists can be predictable.
acting8.50/10
The acting is superb, with Jonathan Rhys Meyers delivering a nuanced and emotional performance. The supporting cast is also impressive, particularly Rose Byrne and Mekhi Phifer.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Jonathan Rhys Meyers delivering a standout performance as the protagonist. The supporting cast is also impressive, particularly Rose Byrne as the love interest.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, with Pierre Salvadori effectively capturing the mood and atmosphere of Haiti in the 1950s. However, some scenes feel overly long, and the editing could be tighter.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of Haiti's landscapes and vibrant colors. The camera work is often innovative, using long takes and close-ups to create a sense of tension and unease.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Comedians is a gripping drama that explores complex themes of power, corruption, and morality. The cinematography is stunning, and the acting is superb. The film's climax is both shocking and thought-provoking.
Cons
The pacing can be slow at times, and some scenes feel overly long. The plot twists can be predictable, and the editing could be tighter.
Notable Quotes
"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
