The Count of Monte Cristo is a film adaptation of Alexandre Dumas's adventure novel, starring Pierre Niney in the lead role. Like most films I have reviewed and continue to review, I first saw it in the cinema. I must admit, I am not fond of novels, and even less so of films based on them. But this film stands apart and is among my top ten favorite films. The plot is probably familiar to many, and for those who haven't read the novel or seen other adaptations, I won't spoil it.
This film struck me primarily with its plot, as I hadn't read the novel before, and everything happening on screen was unexpected for me. Although I have rewatched this film many times, I have never once felt that it was a one-time watch. Every time, it draws you in, and all three hours of screen time fly by in one breath.
It's definitely hard to say exactly why I love this film so much: perhaps for its theme of revenge and justice; perhaps for the well-thought-out plan and the strict adherence to it; perhaps for the charisma of the protagonist, brilliantly portrayed by Pierre Niney; perhaps for the immersion in the atmosphere of the 19th century. Or perhaps for all of it combined. Here you have everything necessary for a great film: intrigue, betrayal, love, revenge, duels, and mysteries.
When it comes to the film's deeper meaning, it is especially interesting to watch Edmond Dantès himself. At the start of the film, he is one person, but by the finale, he is completely different. As the plot unfolds, the question arises more and more often: can revenge truly bring satisfaction, or does it only create new suffering and chaos?
The film is a 10 out of 10. I definitely recommend watching it.
