The books-sleuth Dean Corso(Johnny Deep) is contracted by a famous magnate and tomes collector named Balkan(Frank Langella) to authenticate the rare text 'The ninth gate of the kingdom of shadows', a 17th century occult book reportedly have been written by the demon. He must encounter the only other two copies of this strange book who give his proprietary an extraordinary power. Corso undergoes a dangerous voyage through Madrid, Toledo, Paris and towards a strange castle. Corso asks help his friend Bernie(James Russo) and an old books-expert(Jose Lopez Rodero) .The book's first copy is possessed by a solitary individual(Jack Taylor) and the second by an old widow paralytic(Barbara Jefford).Corso confronts natural and supernatural problems in this terrifying adventure pursued by an enigmatic woman(Emmanuelle Seigner).
This exciting movie packs mystery, tension, spooky scenes, strikingly suspense and creepy images.The picture is entertaining , however contains some moments a little embarrassing such as the surprisingly scenes about the satanic reunion, similarly made to 'Eyes wide shut' by Stanley Kubrick. Glamorous cinematography by Darius Khondji and suspenseful musical score by Wojciech Killar. The tale is based on Arturo Perez Reverte's novel whose books have been adapted to cinema in several occasions(Alatriste,Nautical chart, Tablet of Flandes, Fencing master). The motion picture is professionally directed by Roman Polanski(The pianist,Bitter moon,Frantic,Dance of vampires), though very inferior his classic'Rosemary's Baby'. Rating : Acceptable and passable.
This exciting movie packs mystery, tension, spooky scenes, strikingly suspense and creepy images.The picture is entertaining , however contains some moments a little embarrassing such as the surprisingly scenes about the satanic reunion, similarly made to 'Eyes wide shut' by Stanley Kubrick. Glamorous cinematography by Darius Khondji and suspenseful musical score by Wojciech Killar. The tale is based on Arturo Perez Reverte's novel whose books have been adapted to cinema in several occasions(Alatriste,Nautical chart, Tablet of Flandes, Fencing master). The motion picture is professionally directed by Roman Polanski(The pianist,Bitter moon,Frantic,Dance of vampires), though very inferior his classic'Rosemary's Baby'. Rating : Acceptable and passable.