The Constant Gardener

I just came back from seeing "The Constant Gardener" on the second night after its opening. It was easily one of the best movies I've seen recently. After what I felt was a disappointing Oscar season last year, it was great to finally finish a movie and say "Wow, that was great."

Directed by Fernando Meirelles ("City of God") and adapted from the novel by John Le Carré, "The Constant Gardener" takes us on a journey of one man on a search for truth about the woman he loves. Throughout this discovery, we travel to London, Kenya, and Sudan, among other locations, and Meirelles invites us to enter a world mostly mysterious and unknown to most of us through powerful footage with documentary-like appeal.

Ralph Fiennes is excellent in his lead role as Justin Quayle, a slightly awkward and demure British Diplomat who marries a young and energetic activist, Tessa, played by the captivating Rachel Weisz. The film is unique for its richness and complexity--that is, its ability to so intricately and convincingly combine themes so deep and relevant, yet usually not discussed in any related context.

In the case of "The Constant Gardener," the issues are corporate corruption, grave international crises, and of course, the universal theme of love. Though confusing at times (or perhaps I'm slow), occasionally slow, and with a few too many dizzying camera effects, the movie was beautifully crafted and the story was profoundly moving.

Anyway, this film comes highly recommended by me. But just to forewarn you, don't go in expecting a feel-good, warm and fuzzy movie. This isn't one for a first date. If that's what you're looking for, try "Must Love Dogs" instead...


Current Music: Lover Lay Down, by Dave Matthews Band