TRISTAN AND ISOLDE

James Franco and Sophia Myles share a forbidden love in the romantic period piece, TRISTAN AND ISOLDE. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, much of the region has fallen under the power of Ireland, while the remaining parcels are divided amongst several British factions. Tristan is a Brit, one whom is left to die when his raft drifts upon Ireland’s shore. Isolde, posing as a commoner, finds Tristan, cares for him and then falls in love. Later the two meet, in unlikely circumstances, with Tristan winning Isolde’s hand for his Lord.

Director Kevin Reynolds seems to have a knack for telling classic stories. His remakes of ROBIN HOOD and THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO weren’t nearly as memorable as their written works, but they were entertaining vehicles told in ageless style. TRISTAN AND ISOLDE is much of the same, a classic love story set across a historical backdrop, with plenty of meaty action sequences for those who aren’t won over by the romance. After being force-fed hyper edited scenes from modern action directors, it was refreshing to view battles where one could be excited and thrilled, while still understanding their moments, motives and outcomes. TRISTAN AND ISOLDE is visually drab, creating a dark and gloomy atmosphere, but does reflect the tone of the characters struggles. James Franco and Rufus Sewell provide strong performances, in spite of their weakly written dialogue. TRISTAN AND ISOLDE is an effective romantic and action-oriented period piece, despite a few missteps.

Grade: B-