LemonLadyR

I am over 60, and don't usually like movies with usual plots (although this one had a good, if not original, twist) or 'teen movies'. But I loved this one, even though I knew going in that it was a young love story. And I loved it a little because I related to Maddie's life, a lot because it was done well, and very beautifully.

I think there is something for everyone here, from good character development, acting, editing, and even the great house Maddie lived in (although more of a beautiful jail). Since so much of it took place indoors, the house had to be a character, for the movie to work. I want that house! The Hawaii 'dream' sequences were beautiful and emotional, everything I hoped they would be. Maddie's emotions were conveyed very well.

I loved that there was no nudity. I loved that he loved her the most for being funny and smart, and then beautiful. I loved that people of color were cast mostly, at least it seemed, just because they got the part, although I understand some was done due to the book it was based on.

I came into this outside of the comic book it is based on (or any comic books), so I had no expectations. I love the movie The Devil's Advocate, which also stars Keanu Reeves, so thought he might also do this justice, even though his acting skills are somewhat limited. And I love Rachel Weisz, although she has never trumped The Constant Gardener, and has carried that character forward, unfortunately. Here, she really tries on a different acting persona, leaving behind that defiant, earnest young woman thing. But it doesn't work and just seems like she is trying to be Reeves' character. I think she probably is a one note actress. I enjoyed, mostly, the basic movie, effects, and makeup. It kept my interest, but the acting was sometimes laughable and the ending is fairly clunky. All the plot/script holes came together for it and it ruined my opinion of the whole movie. It was really horrid. Without the ending, I would give it 7-8 stars. I don't watch a lot of comic book movies, or read any, but it was better than I thought it would be and not a bad way to spend time. Doubt I will watch it again; doesn't have the depth, on any level. I read that it didn't follow the comic it was based on, Hellblazer, very much, but incorporated plot and characters from other comics, and perhaps that is what allowed it to be the movie it is. Not sure a comic could do much but form the stub for a movie plot. I would consider watching the sequel, when it comes out, after checking the reviews.

I was stunned as Kit Harington coasted through on a tide of blandness, and showed no sign of his vaunted GOT talents, yet he should have had a change of character for this role (duh). Stunningly boring. Even at only 3 episodes, it felt as torturous as what was happening to the Catholics. Nothing remotely like Wolf Hall (which was all this was not). Amateur directing, writing, and acting (Liv Tyler may be a treat, but she sounds like Arwen in LOTR here). Wholly terrible and not even lit well.