I know a lot of people did not like Christopher Paolini's book Eragon and its sequel Eldest for various reasons such as; wasn't well written, it wasn't mature, it wasn't original, etc. I, on the other hand, enjoyed the book and even if the characters were not as well rounded as some in classic literature, they were a least entertaining. This book was made into a movie that was released at the end of 2006 and I saw it for the first time when it came out on DVD. I thought I had written about it here, but after a quick search I find I was mistaken. The reason I'm bringing it up now is because I watched it for the second time today and had some very different feelings.I had heard, before watching it the first time, that it was not very true to the book and most of those who saw it were disappointed in the result of the adaptation. Because I this I was determined to have an open mind and keep the movie separate from the book, which I did. I found that in doing this I was able to enjoy the movie for what it was - entirely different from the book. I actually liked some of the changes they made as they added something more to the movie. I concluded that I generally liked this movie.
So I thought I would enjoy it the second time. Sadly, in watching it again I found my previous open mind was now not so accepting. First, the script is just awful. I'll allow that the book is not spectacular on a literary level, but it was tolerable enough that I've read it several times and enjoy it each time. This, I am convinced, is not possible with the movie. Second, I found Eragon annoying and couldn't properly relate to him as a hero. He was just flat. The best I can say is that John Malkovich is just creepy, as usual, and thus an appropriate choice to play Galbatorix. And the fight scenes were still pretty good. But after a second viewing I've got to say I don't know that I'll watch this again.
Did you see this movie? Had you read the book first? Your thoughts?
2 comments:
I am one of the naysayers who disliked the book and the movie was awful also. I really wish they would spend some more time working on the scripts of some of these movies and maybe a little less time on the "effects".
I have to say that I like the funny little vest-like thing that he's wearing in that picture. That's all.
Ok, I also have to add that there is much lacking in the books and movie, but I still give Paolini credit. He's a young guy who at least has something to lack from...I'm still an aspiring writer who has yet to produce something that even merits lackage:)
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