Vintage: The Saint
I love movies from the 90s. It just seems like there were so many movies that came from the 90s that were just fun to watch. Whenever I’m reading about the movies of today, there’s always an underlying analysis of its possible metaphor to the war, or some strange commentary on taxes or public policy. Well, I’m going to review a gem from the 90s that doesn’t take on such heavy subjects. It can’t: it has Val Kilmer in it, which is nearly the antithesis of public commentary. Oh yes, I’m talking about the 1997 vintage classic, The Saint.
Val Kilmer stars as Simon Templar, a spy that poses under the aliases of saints. His troubled life becomes intertwined with a sexy scientist (and let’s face it, all scientists are sexy) named Dr. Emma Russell (played by Elisabeth Shue). During the height of a Russian revolution for power, Dr Russell stumbles upon the secret to cold fusion. The powerful Tretiak family, a gangster-like family responsible for the missing heating oil) attempts to overthrow the government. Simon and Russell get tangled into this story when news of her discovery is out.
That plot alone should be enough to head to the stores and rent this film now. As my brother calls these types of films, it is a “Must See, Must Own, Multiple Copy” or rather MSMOMC. Now here’s why:
Val Kilmer is an entertainer. And that’s pretty much what he does in this entire film. He is able to capture the elements from the original television show, and carry it on to the 90s audience with a seamless effort. He plays the part of a spy well. And complimented by the acting skills of Shue, they make the perfect couple you want to root for. The antagonists were selected so well, it makes the classic battle between good and evil that more enjoyable to watch.
It’s a fun film, yet holds itself as a serious and plot driven story. Riddled with his past, Simon feels that only miracles can save the situation he has become entangled in. To become a Saint, he must create three miracles, and throughout the film, his efforts prove challenging. But as I said, paired with the perfect woman for the role, he challenges are overcome.
Nothing special in the technical department. But I didn’t need to be wowed while watching this film to feel it was worth my time. The same goes for its replay value. It’s one of those “just pop in because we want to have a good time” films. It’s witty, funny, serious, dangerous, and enjoyable. What more could one want from a film? Phillip Noyce is a strong director, with great films behind him such as Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger. It’s a good film. Check it out if you haven’t already seen it!
Val Kilmer stars as Simon Templar, a spy that poses under the aliases of saints. His troubled life becomes intertwined with a sexy scientist (and let’s face it, all scientists are sexy) named Dr. Emma Russell (played by Elisabeth Shue). During the height of a Russian revolution for power, Dr Russell stumbles upon the secret to cold fusion. The powerful Tretiak family, a gangster-like family responsible for the missing heating oil) attempts to overthrow the government. Simon and Russell get tangled into this story when news of her discovery is out.
That plot alone should be enough to head to the stores and rent this film now. As my brother calls these types of films, it is a “Must See, Must Own, Multiple Copy” or rather MSMOMC. Now here’s why:
Val Kilmer is an entertainer. And that’s pretty much what he does in this entire film. He is able to capture the elements from the original television show, and carry it on to the 90s audience with a seamless effort. He plays the part of a spy well. And complimented by the acting skills of Shue, they make the perfect couple you want to root for. The antagonists were selected so well, it makes the classic battle between good and evil that more enjoyable to watch.
It’s a fun film, yet holds itself as a serious and plot driven story. Riddled with his past, Simon feels that only miracles can save the situation he has become entangled in. To become a Saint, he must create three miracles, and throughout the film, his efforts prove challenging. But as I said, paired with the perfect woman for the role, he challenges are overcome.
Nothing special in the technical department. But I didn’t need to be wowed while watching this film to feel it was worth my time. The same goes for its replay value. It’s one of those “just pop in because we want to have a good time” films. It’s witty, funny, serious, dangerous, and enjoyable. What more could one want from a film? Phillip Noyce is a strong director, with great films behind him such as Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger. It’s a good film. Check it out if you haven’t already seen it!
posted by Admin at 9:57 AM
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