Review: Priest

My review of Priest will be simple, brief, and to the point.

I had high expectations for this film based on the advance advertising that blitzed the country. However, taking in just $14.5M its first weekend, I had doubts about the film, but still wanted to see it in spite of poor box office receipts. 

The CGI in Priest looked phenomenal in the adverts, the actors top-rate talent, and the storyline appeared interesting, if not downright tired by this point.

As I watched Priest (in 3D, mind you), I was struck with a feeling of loss when compared to my expectations. The storlyine is competent and moves nicely. However, the action is far too infrequent, and seems like it was there only to show action for the sole sake of having action in the film. There was nothing surprising whatsoever throughout the entire length of the feature--which was disappointing, to say the least. 

The CGI and 3D effects were only OK by todays increasingly technical standards. The editing was choppy, and the directing seemed haphazard. The best technical aspect of the film was the score of music used throughout. It was enjoyable to listen to.

As far as acting, Paul Bettany is grossly leashed by the director and his fabulous talent is wasted. Even Christopher Plummer's small role was just fake and forced. The best acting came via actresses Maggie Q and Lily Collins. They seemed to best play their roles with a real sense of believability.

Though the film ends with a clear introduction for a sequel, a second undertaking would be ill advised unless a better director is found, who also has a better script to follow.

Priest isn't a bad movie...it's just not a very good film.

I'm glad I went to see it; but I won't buy this one on DVD. At most, it will be an enjoyable film on a free movie channel for at least one viewing.