Robert Gray
Well-Known Member
I haven't seen it yet. However, I've noticed a significant trend in reading the thoughts of people here, elsewhere, and to those I talk to. Those who haven't read the books at all, have been entirely unimpressed with the film. Most of them said the same kinds of things, like it is too short, confusing, nothing is explained, and aside from the kid the characters are cartoons. Of the people who haven't read the books, it is a pretty harsh review list. Among the people who have read the books, there are those who are not happy this isn't an adaptation but some sort of sequel. These people are unimpressed, but I can't place too much weight on it because they were never going to be happy. What they went to the theater to see simply wasn't going to be there. The last group is those that have read the books and were either open to are accepting of the idea that this was something else. This group seems to review it best, but there is a clear bias in WANTING to like it rather than solid effusion. Does that make sense? It doesn't make me particularly trustful of that group either. Hell, I WANT to like it myself, but that doesn't mean much in the end.
Overall, people of all stripes said the best actor in the film was Jake. That doesn't surprise me because it was clear from the start the story (even if the advertising looks different) is Jake's story. It doesn't matter how great an Actor you are, if the story is about someone else... it limits one's access. People are all over the board about both Roland and the Man in Black, so much so that I can't draw a clear idea. Nobody mentions, so far at least, ANY of the supporting characters beyond these three. As someone who hasn't seen the film, it is almost as if other characters do not exist. That isn't good in my opinion. Right now I'm not in a rush to see it. Why? If I am to accept the film is something new, and had to be taken on its own merits, then I have to trust the people who have NEVER read the books. They are the ones, after all, who are judging this thing fresh and on its own merits. I'm hoping to see a turnaround in their opinions. *Please note, I'm not relying on posted reviews alone (although I do read them).
Overall, people of all stripes said the best actor in the film was Jake. That doesn't surprise me because it was clear from the start the story (even if the advertising looks different) is Jake's story. It doesn't matter how great an Actor you are, if the story is about someone else... it limits one's access. People are all over the board about both Roland and the Man in Black, so much so that I can't draw a clear idea. Nobody mentions, so far at least, ANY of the supporting characters beyond these three. As someone who hasn't seen the film, it is almost as if other characters do not exist. That isn't good in my opinion. Right now I'm not in a rush to see it. Why? If I am to accept the film is something new, and had to be taken on its own merits, then I have to trust the people who have NEVER read the books. They are the ones, after all, who are judging this thing fresh and on its own merits. I'm hoping to see a turnaround in their opinions. *Please note, I'm not relying on posted reviews alone (although I do read them).