“Inferno” takes viewers on an intriguing adventure filled with enigmatic puzzles and thrilling twists. Regardless of its classification as a masterpiece, a criminal’s name, a speculative premise, or a haunting legacy; it remains fundamentally about the essence of humanity itself. The film is like a captivating story, though it may be difficult to discern whether its appeal lies in the cinematic experience or simply in being a fan of Dan Brown, the author of the novel from which the film is adapted.
“Inferno,” known in English by the same title, is the third installment in the series of films featuring Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon, adapted from the novel by author Dan Brown. However, since each part has a distinct storyline, it is not necessary to watch the previous two films, “Angels and Demons” and “The Da Vinci Code,” beforehand.
From the perspective of an action-adventure film, I consider “Inferno” to be an excellent movie. Although the script deviates significantly from the original source, it retains the core essence and trademark style of Dan Brown. The film immerses viewers in an engaging adventure filled with intertwined mysteries, organized in a way that leads viewers to unravel the plot without overwhelming shock. The beauty of the film lies in the details that signal the beginning of the mystery until it is resolved. If you are a subtle observer, you might uncover the clues along the way. Meanwhile, if you are a casual viewer looking for entertainment, you might find yourself intrigued when the truth emerges. However, it would be unfair to dismiss the film’s content as purely superficial; the real essence lies in its depth.
In his works, Dan Brown often showcases the concept of “genius” through profound philosophies; yet the intertwined “philosophical” elements connect in a “logical” manner. “Inferno” raises many questions about the existence of humanity. The distinction between genius and criminal behavior often blurs, much like the line between a moral compass and a questionable legacy. Beneath the surface of “Inferno” lies deep philosophical inquiries that are not easily grasped by everyone, requiring more than just two hours of viewing to fully appreciate.
One notable aspect of “Inferno” is its screenplay adaptation. Some elements were altered to facilitate a faster-paced cinematic experience, enhancing the action sequences. Loyal fans may not appreciate these changes; however, they contribute to making the film’s narrative more captivating and engaging than the source material. While the film might appear to simplify the profound philosophical themes that Dan Brown is known for, the resolution of the plot has been wholly rewritten. Although attempting to remain true to the original, it loses some of the distinctiveness present in the novel. Nevertheless, the film delivers an action-packed conclusion that keeps the audience’s grey matter engaged.
My highest assessment of “Inferno” lies in its compelling narrative, which is even more engaging than the original plot. “Inferno” is based on a highly successful novel that has sold over 6 million copies worldwide; however, it is not without its shortcomings. Especially, the narrative flow sometimes lacks clarity, and the viewer must pay close attention to fully appreciate the nuances of the story. In this aspect, the film excels far beyond expectations. The conclusion of the film balances the action sequences and philosophical dialogues effectively, allowing the audience to enjoy a blend of “high tension” and “thoughtful reflection” while watching.
The characters in the film, particularly Seinna, are portrayed with much more depth compared to the novel. Additionally, the actions of the characters have been modified to fit the cinematic approach. However, in essence, it lacks the depth and logic present in the novel, which allows the audience to notice the discrepancies, especially in the character’s final arc. Furthermore, aligning with Hollywood’s style, the film has a romantic subplot that adds a touch of vibrancy to the story.
The engaging performance of “Inferno” also benefits from the significant contributions of the lead actors Tom Hanks (Robert Langdon) and Felicity Jones (Seinna Brooks). Tom Hanks delivers an outstanding performance, embodying the intelligent, witty, and decisive character of Langdon. Meanwhile, Felicity Jones, though she has a more subdued presence, fits her role quite well. Notably, the cinematographic technique has beautifully highlighted their chemistry, creating a visually stunning connection. The dialogue between the “professor” and “partner” is crafted with care, showcasing a natural yet intellectual rapport. In addition, the supporting characters are also well-integrated into the story, serving their purpose effectively. This element helps the audience feel connected, rather than merely observing the film as passive viewers.
In summary, if you enjoy action-adventure films, “Inferno” is a compelling movie worth your time to experience. However, if you are a fan of Dan Brown, you may find this film less satisfying than expected (not because the film is poor but due to the inherent complexity of the source material).
(Source: Tinhte)
