Released into theaters on December 10, 2010,
The Tourist stars eye-candy Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie. Directed by Florian Henckel Von Dommersmarck, the film also features Timothy Dalton, Rufus Sewell, and Steven Berkoff. The DVD will be distributed by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, and made available to the public nationwide on March 22nd, 2011. It is classified as an adventure-thriller, wrought with drama and violence. It is actually a remake of the French film entitled “Anthony Zimmer,” which was released in 2005.
Before its release, critics weren't sure what to expect from
The Tourist
. Many thought that it would leave members of the Academy blown away, leaving both stars up for an Oscar. Others brushed it off as an excuse for two big names to work together, while also getting the opportunity to travel to some far away places. The results after the release seemed equally mixed.
The Tourist is an absolutely delightful film which is full of action, humour, and twists to entertain without being ridiculous.
The plot of
The Tourist
follows Elise, played by Jolie, who is a mysterious woman of the world. She somehow finds herself caught up in the path of a thief who betrayed another shady character. When on a train she meets Depp’s character, Frank, who is a plain math teacher from the Midwest. Frank, who was only supposed to be on vacation, also becomes tangled up in this web of thievery and deceit. The course of action that follows brings a story full of chases, thugs, and close misses. The uncredited star of the film is the cinematography, done by John Seale, and praised by many as providing the perfect backdrop for a story of romance and suspense. The soundtrack has also been given praise.
The Tourist is Von Dommersmarck's first English film, as he is originally a German director. This may be the reason that many find the dialogue in the film awkward at times, and poorly timed. Timing is everything in the presentation of a script, and in this one something is a bit off. Others praise the traditional feel of the film, claiming that it pays tribute to romantic thrillers from the 50s and 60s. The sets and locations of the film are impressive, carrying a hint of old Europe that makes the ladies gush.
The Tourist contains some lines that are hilariously well written and great acting. Johnny Depp is superb! Johnny Depp wonderfully plays a hero that any normal person can relate to.In those scenes where there are no words said and all the acting and emotions are through the expressions and movements. The moment when Angelina's character breaks her professional façade she is presenting when Johnny's character asks her if she could ever love him is both comical and beautiful.
The Tourist
has a charming old fashioned feel to it, and there are no sex scenes to lower the tone for a change. When Angelina Jolie silently messages him under her breath at the climax of the film, it is such a beautiful, sweet, romantic moment.
The DVD of
The Tourist
will feature a widescreen version of the film, as well as subtitle and dubbing capabilities. Additional features, such as a full commentary of the film, featurettes, and additional footage relevant to the filming and content matter of the film are also available. The film runs at 103 minutes with full titles.
Abi Motala