Why so much hype?

Expected more

A Disappointing Continuation

The film may be flawed, but its message is not.

Juliette Binoche and Olivier Martinez are first rate as an Aristocrat and the horseman assigned to protect her during a deadly plague. The costumes and sets were extraordinary; it is interesting to point out that this went down in history as one of the most costly French film productions (with all the attention paid to period detail, you can see why.)

This lavish spectacle includes panoramic mountain views, stunningly beautiful Juliette Binoche, studly handsome Olivier Martinez, energetic sword fights, dashing horses, touching love, feeble attempts of cholera control, aristocratic restraint, flawless acting, and even decent subtitles... ...Now really, what else could one want in a film?!! This is a terrific film, with a refreshing French style (not the usual Hollywood format). Nearly all the IMDB comments below are positive, and this film won (or was nominated for) several awards. Unless you are averse to non-English films, I suggest you run down and rent this video now. It is a gem.

In brief, I love this film because it is as close to perfection as a movie can be. If you are not too daunted by subtitles (in French) then you will find an original tale, superbly acted by both the leading characters and entire supporting cast. It will keep you on the edge-of- your-seat. Emotionally it's touching, gripping, packed with exciting swashbuckling action, and crammed full with beautiful photographic scenery or backdrops. Every scene or line spoken is tightly relevant to the story. At no point does this engaging film lose focus or become predictable.The period is set in Central Europe during the 19th Century, where Europe is beset by war and worse, disease. People are more wary of strangers, or mad with fright, should they be murdered or fall victim to the rampaging cholera. One crazed or inspired thing happens after another throughout the captivating story. However, there's a fine balance between the hectic frenzy and the subtle quieter moments, as an unspoken love develops between the honourable dashing young nobleman Colonel and his new companion, the confident aristocrat married woman (Juliette Binoche), in search of her lost husband. The manner by which he chances upon her to begin with is unique and amusing. Juliette Binoche and Olivier Martinez should have deservedly walked away with Oscars, as should everyone involved for script, cinematography, music, costumes and direction! To summarise, one of the best made films you or I will ever have the privilege see.

I found this film to be excellent. Though I am a student of history, I really do not know all the details regarding this episode of the freeing of Italy from Austrian authoritarianism. Though interesting, the historical aspect of the movie was not that important to me. It was a highly enjoyable adventure film that could have been placed in lots of different historical times.Besides being a great adventure film it masterfully dealt with a most wide range of emotions. There were many undertones and harmonics dealing with fear, desperation, horror, escape, passion, love, honor and divine, or natural, justice.What was so fascinating to me was how the movie showed the power of freedom, courage and focus. The protagonist was raised by his mother (a most curiously powerful presence in this movie even though we never see or hear her)to be independent and freedom loving and this movie shows how strong and almost invincible this makes him because he believes it and lives it with all his heart. All around him the world is literally falling apart and going mad from fear and disease and yet, by neither railing against it nor taking on these thoughts, he triumphs with his will to live and being true to his own vision at all times.And as an added bonus, the visual artistry of this movie, from the titles all the way to the end is beautiful to behold. The scenery, costumes, sets, actors, camera angles and etc. are all brilliantly satisfying. The movie was a joy to see.