REEL REVIEW

VALKYRIE
I have to admit I’ve been putting off this review because I didn’t want to bash a Tom Cruise film. I think he already takes a little more bashing than he should. Plus, he did the press junket on this film trying to overcome the last images the public had of him. He REALLY is trying. But, I am the Duchess, and must fulfill my duty. So here goes:

Frankly, the History Channel’s special about Valkyrie is more interesting to watch. Watching that special actually made me realize what a great story Valkyrie is to tell. They even show clips and background information on the film that is greatly interesting. I didn’t hate the film. I just don’t think it’s worth the $10 you’ll have to pay to see it. Again, I hate to bash Tom... The screenplay simply didn’t cover the story as it should have—and apparently this film spent years in the making.

You have to know about me, I watch films for more than just story content. In the beginning of the film, I couldn’t get passed the ill-fitted uniform Tom Cruise was wearing. I kept thinking, “This film is getting all kinds of attention because it stars TC and they can’t even fit him in his wardrobe?” What? !@ They actually lost my interest at that point. I didn’t fall asleep, but wanted to.

I could go on to tell you about the film, but don’t even want to. Briefly: 1) This is not a ‘war’ movie. No bloodshed. 2) You never get the feeling this was an anti-Hitler movement made up of hundreds (I can’t remember the exact number) of Germans. The film leads you to believe it’s this small group of officers that are out to get Hitler. 3) You don’t get the background information you need to completely understand the movement. The filmmakers assumed we knew exactly what the story was, when in reality, I was at the film to learn just that. I needed them to be more creative when telling the story. 4) I would have preferred a British accent to play the lead. (I know this shouldn’t count as a critique). 5) Cruise plays the same character he plays in all his films (the exception may be ‘The Last Samurai’). Tom should stick with his Mission Impossible films that are fantastic. Sorry Tom.

That’s all I’ll say.