Polanski obviously has a taste for the "grey zone" between the natural and the so called super-natural and most clearly explored in Rosemary´s Baby. The director has himself stated that he does not believe in the occult or supernatural, but still he likes to work with that theme. This is an interesting angle for me personally, since i am sort of on the same wavelength there. My interest lies in the effect that the actions of those who do believe in occultism and mysticism, has on their surroundings. This film is a loose adaptation of a book called "Le Club Dumas".
A vintage book dealer Corso (Johnny Depp) is offered a large amount of money by a dedicated collector to go to Europe to locate and investigate the genuineness of two additional copies of a rare book he has recently acquired, that can possibly invoke the devil. While researching the books he finds out that they are not identical, but the nine engravings inside are slightly different from each other.
As he delves deeper and deeper into the mysteries of the books he finds himself being watched and former owners of the two additional books die as soon as he has researched their copy. A beautiful girl who follows him suddenly helps him when he is in danger and she seems to have supernatural powers.
He finally realizes that all three books are necessary to understand how to use them for their evil purpose. He finds out that the collector that offered him the job is not exactly innocent in the happenings and that the wife of a deceased owner of one of the books is also involved in a cult that intend to use the power of the books.
After the final showdown Corso realizes that the real truth about the books has yet to be discovered and the girl that follows him around has a special influence on him and the fate of the books.
I like old books and the mystique and history that surrounds them. They are sources of both great good and great evil. People are seduced by words and can easily be deceived if the are prone to it. The movie starts out with some great tracking shots and has a light film noir feel to it that is carried through. I would have loved an even darker and grittier feel but it will do. Depp does a fine but unimpressive job. I would have liked a deeper and more involved character and loved to see him get emotionally drawn into the story. He basically stays the same person and acts like a detective, not a book dealer.
The plot is rather banal and transparent. It runs along the same lines as tons of other movies in the same genre. The tricks the director uses feel too much old school and safe instead of daring or inventive. It is beautifully shot and flows well, but it seems too tame to really get you involved.
The side story with the girl is perhaps the most noteworthy part. She is likely the key to unraveling how to understand the underlying plot. She seems to be everywhere Corso needs her, but still she does not reveal her true identity ... until the last scene i suppose. Then we know where the real potential devil is and how it works among us. Evil will always try to cloak itself as an innocent sheep and suck the lifeblood out of you before you realize what is going on.
This film is ok entertainment for a late night flick when your in the mood for some light entertainment. It does not really affect you emotionally and the characters do not develop in any real sense. So overall it is hardly a recommendable film to watch.
Rating: 5/10
