The Tourist

Though I do my best to avoid mentioning Hitchcock in every review I do, The Tourist reminded me very much of some of The Masters not so great efforts. Similarity’s being The Tourist is a thriller, though you never feel anyone is really in any danger, there’s an innocent man on the run (natch), it’s got a fair amount of comedy in it, all the scenes look great, the actors are snazzily attired and there’s a twist at the end. Hmmm…To Catch A Thief, anyone? The Tourist is much like that film in the fact that it’s mildly entertaining, but doesn’t warrant any further viewings. Director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s last film was the critically acclaimed The Lives Of Others so we’re in safe hands, but his calm direction means at times the film starts to wander. Luckily, a gag, action scene or plot twist comes along just as you’re at brain about to switch off mode. In said plot we have Elise (Angelina Jolie), who whilst being trailed by the police, befriends a tourist, Frank (Johnny Depp), in order to convince the coppers that he is her lover and criminal mastermind they want to apprehend. Before long mobsters are involved and we have the old classic of a couple on the run from both the police and gangsters. A lot of things in this film don’t work (don’t even bother to start picking through all the plot holes in this), particularly the non-existent chemistry between the skeletal looking Jolie (not sexy at all in this despite von Donnersmarck’s fawning camera) and Depp. Having said all that, its absurdity just about works in its favour and if you’re not too nit-picky you can enjoy some light entertainment whilst savouring the beauty of Venice.

The OC Film Sting Final Verdict
A non-threatening thriller, but whilst it all doesn’t add up to much there’s enough moments of enjoyment to help you get to twisty finish. Rating: 6/10.