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Footnotes in movie books are likely to reduce this swashbuckling adventure down to a simple description: it was the first movie to star Leonardo DiCaprio after the phenomenal success of Titanic. As such it automatically attracted a box-office stampede of Leo's young female fans, but critical reaction was deservedly mixed. Having earned his directorial debut after writing the Oscar-winning script for Mel Gibson's Braveheart, Randall Wallace wrote and directed this ambitious version of the often-filmed classic novel by Alexandre Dumas. DiCaprio plays dual roles as the despotic King Louis XIV, who rules France with an iron fist, and the king's twin brother, Philippe, who languishes in prison under an iron mask, his identity concealed to prevent an overthrow of Louis' throne. But Louis' abuse of power ultimately enrages Athos (John Malkovich), one of the original Four Musketeers, who recruits his former partners (Gabriel Byrne, Gérard Depardieu, and Jeremy Irons) in a plot to liberate Philippe and install him as the king's identical replacement. Once this plot is set in motion and the Musketeers are each given moments in the spotlight, the film kicks into gear and offers plenty of entertainment in the grand style of vintage swashbucklers. But it's also sidetracked by excessive length and disposable subplots, and for all his post-Titanic star power, the boyish DiCaprio just isn't yet "man" enough to be fully convincing in his title role. Still, this is an entertaining movie, no less enjoyable for falling short of the greatness to which it aspired. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (168)

As much fun as the book...
Movie adaptations of books are prone to disappointment - But not so with this film adaptation of "The Man in the Iron Mask," the third book in the Musketeer trilogy by master Alexandre Dumas.

Unlike the earlier "Three Musketeers" released by Disney (featuring Oliver Platt, Charlie Sheen, Chris O'Donnel and Kiefer Sutherland), which was aimed at a younger audience, "Iron Mask" is aimed at a more sophisticated adult audience. It aims past the raucus swashbuckling (although there is plenty of action to satisfy) and strives toward deeper character development in an almost introspective manner. From d'Artagnan's severe sense of duty to Aramis' penitence to Athos' alternating joie de vivre and ennui to Portos' fatherly love, with an underlying religous tone, the "Iron Mask" underscores the human struggle toward virtue and a supernatural code of morality.

The cast, including Jeremy Irons, Gabriel Byrne, Gerard Depardieu, John Malkovich and DiCaprio) is superb - with the exception that Malkovich's characteristic American accent seems out of place juxtaposed to the more British and French tinge of his fellow musketeers; and, more importantly, that the young DiCaprio (who has since matured) has yet to 'come of age' as an actor in this movie. The direction by "Braveheart"'s Randall Wallace is outstanding, with good cinematography and composition, well-planned pacing and a well-written and edited screenplay adaptation of the work.

Of course, the credit to the success of this movie is that the original work by Dumas is a page-turner literary classic! I highly recommend reading the complete trilogy: "The Three Musketeers," "Twenty Years After" and "The Man in the Iron Mask."

For hands-down the best translation of a Dumas work to film, I highly recommend "The Count of Monte Cristo," featuring the excellent Jim Caviezel.

Not Perfect, but Interesting
This movie is not unlike its central character(s) -- twins separated at birth, developing in two different directions. There's the movie for the squealing teens -- basically Leo DiCaprio, in all kinds of costumes, doing his cute-as-a-button routine as both hero and villain. Then there's the movie for everybody else -- a somber, complex story full of superb middle-aged actors who finally find honor and redemption at too high a cost. The two sides of the movie do fit together -- DiCaprio is a surprisingly good actor when he has the likes of Malkovich and Gabriel Byrne feeding him his cues -- but the fit is never perfect. The old guard side of the story is slow-paced at times, because it develops a personal plot line for every single Musketeer, but it gets there in the end. If you like the movie the first time, a re-watching will bring up new and interesting nuances. The best thing in the film (if you're not female and 17) is John Malkovich, whose version of Athos jumps believably from homicidal obsessive to loving father figure without ever touching middle ground. The movie is too flawed to be called 'great,' but what it does well it does very, very well.

True to Dumas
I have read the entire Musketeer series. This version closely tracks its written counterpart. It was well acted and involved the viewer in both the comedy and pathos Dumas was expert at entertaining his readers with. I was actually surprised by diCaprio's performance. I thought he showed great versatility in playing the dual roles. I loved Jeremy Irons in the role of d'Artagnan and I really liked Depardieu too in the role of Porthos. I have played my copy several times for guests in my home. It is a movie that engenders thought about good and evil and shows that, sometimes, it is important to do the right thing --- just because it is right to do.

Starry show for "Man in the Iron Mask"
"THe man in the iron mask" is probably best known for being DiCaprios first film after Titanic, and probably all that itll be remembered, or thanked for. The plot is twisted like much of Dumas' novels in recent film adaptions (such as "The Count of MOnte Cristo")but is still a good film to watch, once you can look over some imperfections in the various actors accents and very television-like twist at the end, that does pose as a suprise to a viewer, whether s/he has read the Musketeer novels or not.
The costumes and scenery are georgous. The huge budget shows not only in the starry cast on show, but in the quality of the interiors of Marseilles and the country side exteriors for Philippes transformation and training. The acting is spontaneous although it plays like a pantomine at times (such as Depardieu's consistent farting and incompetence with three women at one time. Malcovich mid-west accent and Iron's noble countenance somehow match (similar to "Dangerous Liasons" with Close and Malkovich)and Byrnes tragic/romantic/hero passes not exactly for the D'Artanian of the popular screen, his Irish accent also is another mix in the bake.
The directing makes the most of all that is on offer (such as the musketeers charging into musket fire, elaborate chase scenes on the kidnapping of the king and the squalor of the Bastille) and the music complements each scene beautifully that it stands out.
"Man in the Iron Mask" is overall a good film, not a landmark adaptation, but good entertainment of a better quality.

Really fine movie
I bought this movie only recently and really liked it.
I thought EVERYONE was utterly convincing and excellent especially Leo who plays both evil and innocent equally well.
However does anybody note here that something is brought in that was in no other version and not the book : Dartagnan is the father of the king and his brother?
Hmmmm.
But EXCELLENT FILM and I recomment it. ... Read more

Description

The story of a dwarf born to a young French woman just after WW II, who lives his life by the stars, falls in love and becomes a literary celebrity when he publishes an "astronomical autobiography." ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Almost as tasty as old cold gruel
I cringe when I see movies like this, sentimental, shallow no-brainer kind of stuff worse than Hollywood ever made in its sappiest depression or WW2 eras when audiences needed gooey distractions. The acting is laughable at best, understandable, I guess, given the limp material the actors are given, with the exception of Parrillaud who cannot act a stitch but has a great Vogue face totally miscast in this part. The actress playing Byrnes' daughter would have been far better as Bernadette.

This will be one you remember for all the days of your life
There are very few films that are so well told, and uniquely and beautifully so, that when you come across one that touches you so tenderly, it will never leave you. I will never forget seeing this film, and will probably need to watch it a few more times in my lifetime. It's like a very good book, a familiar friend, that you greet again and again over the years, and remember after a brief moment. Pure peotry.

Delightful
Noel Pearson, who produced My Left Foot, is the man who also gives us the delightful Frankie Starlight, a movie based on the equally delightful book by Chet Raymo, The Dork of Cork. Frankie Starlight, like The Dork of Cork, is a story that encompasses love, life and sometimes, even miracles.

Set in post-World War II Ireland, Frankie Starlight is the story of Frankie and his beautiful French mother Bernadette. At the age of eighteen, Bernadette left France and traveled to Ireland, smuggled aboard an American ship. Once in Ireland, Bernadette gives birth to a son, Frankie. With the help of a customs officer, Jack Kelly, she is able to raise Frankie in Dublin.

Astronomy plays a big part in this movie as Jack teaches Frankie about the stars, instilling in the young boy a lasting obsession with the cosmos.

As an adult, Frankie writes a novel based on his love for astronomy and his mother's recollections of her long-past relationship with and ex-GI. Frankie's book is the catalyst that pulls him out of his life of isolation, and as it does, we learn just how his mother's exploits helped to shape Frankie's own life.

Although Raymo is a lecturer in astronomy at Stonehill College in Massachusetts, he spends every summer in Vantry, County Kerry, Ireland. His love for both Ireland and the stars is readily apparent in both the book and in the movie.

The story of Frankie Starlight spans thirty years and is set in France, Ireland and in the United States. It was shot on location in Ireland. The French village scenes were shot on a constructed village on a farm in County Kildare and the Normandy scenes on beaches on the eastern coast of Ireland.

The central character, Frank Bois, is played by Alan Pentony and Corban Walker. Pentony, who is from Drogheda, especially embodies qualities that make up the essence of Frank Bois: youth, warmth and friendly appeal.

Frankie's beautiful French mother is played by Anne Parillaud. Parillaud, who read the scrip, called and asked for the part. Coincidentally, Raymo used a photo of the lovely Parillaud as inspiration when writing Bernadette's scenes in The Dork of Cork.

Gabriel Byrne, who plays Jack Kelly said, after reading the script, "I thought it was very simply written. It was just one of the best things I had read in a long time."

Frankie Starlight is a magical movie, one filled with leprechauns and shamrocks and magic. The kind of magic that only the Irish can evoke, but the kind of magic that anyone can love.

It's a sad movie
The soundtrack is incredible and you'll find yourself humming that haunting chord long after the movie. The movie is kinda sad though - the contrast between the life of the main character as a child and the life he lives as an adult is stark. Each time I see the movie, I always wonder why his mother chose to leave the USA and go back to Ireland. The scene when they arrive back in Dublin and to the apartment they used live in after the freedom they experience in the US makes me want to leave my apt and drive somewhere! I typically don't like Irish movies but this one is good

Sweet, powerful, and wonderful film
This is one of the sweetest films I have ever seen. It's main character, Frankie Bois, is incredibly endearing. I wanted to give him a big hug. The cast is amazing with the great Gabriel Byrne and Matt Dillon. I just loved this movie. It calls out to your heart and soul. It was just great. Also, set in Ireland which makes it all the better. END ... Read more

Reviews (84)

A tour de force!
Why haven't this film been praised in America? It is one of the best films I have ever seen! I know that most people don't like watching foreign films with English subtitles, which is why they miss out on great stories and actors.

La Femme Nikita is the story of a street-smart woman (played by Anne Parillaud) who is kidnapped and trained to become a professional assassin. She has to give up her identity and become the big Government secret. The film has a lot of interesting action scenes -- enough to satisfy the James Bondesque film era. The difference, of course, is that we get to watch a great heroine in action for a change. Also, you will enjoy the strong Pygmalion theme in the film.

I know of people who have seen The Point of No Return (the American version of this film) with Bridget Fonda and the USA Network series based on this film, but the original is always the best. Give this amazing French film a whirl and embark on the experience of great foreign films.

A very different French Foreign Legionnaire
Nikita (Anne Parillaud) is a drug-addicted street urchin who commits murder during a robbery attempt. She is convicted, imprisoned, and executed by lethal injection. Nikita awakens in a Government facility, learns that her family attended her burial, and learns that she has a choice -- become a (disposable) Government agent/assassin or die. Nikita reluctantly chooses life. Nikita is trained in weaponry, hand-to-hand combat, and charm. Nikita accepts all of her training with apathy and disdain, but Nikita survives her training and becomes a Government agent/assassin. And Nikita's missions continuously tear her life apart ...

French director Luc Besson's film "La Femme Nikita" is the basis for the American remake "Point of No Return" starring Bridget Fonda, and also for the "La Femme Nikita" television series. Luc Besson's version is *superior*. Anne Parillaud grows throughout her transformation from hostile street urchin to reluctant Government agent/assassin, combining toughness with *fragile femininity*. Jean-Hugues Anglade plays Nikita's friend Marco who loves and emotionally supports his woman of mystery. Jean Reno ("The Professional") plays 'The Cleaner', the assassin who arrives when one of Nikita's missions goes horribly wrong.

Eric Serra's wonderful jazz score, the European setting, the flowing French dialogue, and Anne Parillaud's tough but fragile femininity combine to make "La Femme Nikita" a memorable film.

Nikita
After a bloody shootout at a pharmacy where all of her gang memeber friends are killed, Nikita (Parillaud), high on drugs, kills a policeman in cold blood and is captured and judged for the murder. However, instead of the gas chamber, she gets recruited to a top secret government agency to be trained as an agent.

At first, she's confused with the situation, but soon enough she's back to normal, not caring for anything around her and acting like the social misfit she is. All the while there's Bob (Karyo), the agent assigned to her case. He treats Nikita like he couldn't care less for her, yet finds her rather amusing and interesting. Even when his superior tells him that she'll never make it, he insists that she has the stuff to be a good agent.

After a while, Nikita comes around and accepts her fate. She continues her training up to the point that three years pass. She's now ready to go back to the real world and Bob chooses her birthday to take her out to a restaurant on what turns out to be more of a mission than a date.

Once outside, Nikita meets Marco (Anglade), who works as a cashier at a supermarket. They fall in love and move together, but their happiness is continuosly interrupted by Bob and the missions he sends Nikita on.

Will Nikita be able to balance her double life? Will Marco figure the whole thing out?

Besson threads an interesting story using well developed characters (the movie revolves around these three characters basically) and interesting set ups for Nikita's missions. The action scenes are well crafted and the acting is really good.

There's a brief appearance by Jean Reno (The Crimson Rivers, León) as another hit man.

This film was the basis for the Peta Wilson TV series and also for an American remake starring Bridget Fonda.

Riveting Action
Director Luc Besson gets it. Besson, a Frenchman no less, understands what separates a juvenile, mindless action movie from a truly smart, devilishly suspensful cinema experience. Using a clever hybrid of European sensuality and sophistication, along with American notions of wild gunplay and bloodshed, Besson weaves an absorbing tale of murder and betrayal. His characters are chilling and relatively simple, while the world they inhabit is explicitly cosmopolitan in its cross Atlantic treachery. Besson sees the tools this setting offers and pushes them to the figurative hilt.

The intriguing story centers around Nikita, a lithe and skillful street urchin played by the violently harried Anne Parillaud. An urban nomad, Nikita is picked up by the mysterious Rico, a role assumed by the ashen faced operator Marc Duret. Rico's motives are unclear at first, but it soon becomes clear that he is not some agent of charity, he is dedicated to molding Nikitas mind in a certain, deadly way. Using her own isolation and his own psychological tricks, Rico, with the help of others in the "group", Rico begins to train Nikita in the arts of death and stealthy assassination. Benefitting a shadowy branch of the French government, Nikita will become an undercover killing machine, moving in and out of various international locales and dispatching her targets ruthlessly. Along the way, Rico must break her spirit, an extremely difficult task, and then rebuild her, teaching her the suave arts of high society and the brute tactics of international murder.

Although Nikita resists, she soon gains a reliance on her new teachers, especially Rico, who has a feeling about her. His support is rewarded as Nikita takes to the field for the first time, and the audience is treated to a ripping good action scene. Nikita assumes a somewhat normal life, striking up a relationship, living a life unknown to her. Of course, as she gallavants around the continent, she is forced to pull off daunting and extreme hits, which are portrayed lovingly by Besson. The strange connection between Nikita and Rico begin to strain as Nikita feels the emotional considerable stress of living two lives at once. Her position becomes more untenable as she becomes wrapped up into a violent spiral of severely unethical murder, including the murderously adriot personage of Jean Reno, who wields his 9mm like some kind of quasi-mythical broadsword. His extreme mission and its repercussions soon toss Nikita into a very dangerous position, and theres only one way out. You guessed it, shooting.

La Femme Nikita is one of those movies that just never stops impressing the viewer with its sheer audacity. The spirit it conveys, one of shady slaughter and grand stage is just mesmerizing, and the simple but layered characters bring their own murderious tint to the whole spectacle. A great example of what a smart action movie can be.

sensitive and dangerous
Sensitive, sophisticated, violent, and exquisite are some of the adjectives that could best describe this tour de force movie by Luc Besson. Unlike most action movies which depend on high body counts and explosives, this movie moves carefully forward as Nikita is transformed from a drug using criminial to a controlled killer. Besides the story, I especially enjoyed the view of french culture. Parisian restaurants, apartments, and gritty streets are beautifully filmed by Besson. Most importantly, the movie contains a female lead character which contrasts Hollywood's obsession with testosterone filled actors who can never enunciate their words. Nikita is played brilliantly. In fact, Nikita hardly speaks throughout the film, yet the viewer can still observe her true character. In my opinion that is an example of brilliant film making. Do yourself a favor and buy this DVD. ... Read more

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The visual sophistication of director Vincent Ward(The Navigator, What Dreams May Come) pulls us through this often awkward chronicle of the lifelong star-crossed passion shared by a Canadian Eskimo boy (Jason Scott Lee, fromDragon: The Bruce Lee Story) and the mixed-race girl(La Femme Nikita's Anne Parillaud) he meets and falls in love with as a child. (A glowering Patrick Bergin is the third corner of the triangle.) Flamboyant sequences, like an amorous clinch on top of a billowing dirigible, and the heartfelt grandeur of the Arctic landscapes, are almost enough to compensate for the clunky transitions and the melodramatic excesses of the storytelling. Almost. Ward's first film, The Navigator (not to be confused withThe Flight of...), is a visionary oddity that gives a much clearer indication of the way his work was heading: into the upper atmosphere.--David Chute ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Magnificant, compelling, and beautifully photographed.
This love story is one that spans from childhood thru adulthood. Mr. Ward's vision and superb cinematography make this a must see film. It flows evenly, and alternately makes you laugh and cry. The special effects are really well done and the last mission over Dresden are scenes that will haunt you forever. The final scenes are the most revered of the entire film. They are wonderfully done. As Albertine and Avik fly overhead in a balloon, he sees himself dying below on the arctic ice shelf. He was dreaming all of this, and Mr. Ward really knows how to make a movie. The alternating sequences of the mirror shining in their faces thru out the film lend something special to this offering. This is one film, I can watch over and over and never tire of it. My only regret is that is not available on DVD.

A romantic tale of life-long love
I found this to be one of the most romantic movies I've ever seen. It tells the story of Avik, a young Eskimo boy who meets Walter Russell (Patrick Bergin) when Walter comes to map his village. Avik discovers he has Tuberculosis, and Walter takes the young boy to Montreal where he stays at a Catholic hospital. There he meets Albertine, a young girl of mixed French Canadian and Indian blood. They grow attached to each other, in spite of the meddling of one of the nuns, played by Jeanne Moreau. Eventually, Avik and Albertine are separated. Avik returns to his village, and becomes a man. He finds he is ostracized by his fellow tribe, because he has lived too long among the white people.

Avik as an adult is played by Jason Scott Lee. By this time, Canada is involved in World War II, and Avik joins the Air Force and flies on bombing raids. He is reunited with Albertine (Anne Parillaud) in London, who is also in the military. Unfortunately, so is Walter Russell. And it seems that he and Albertine have met and become romantically involved. Avik does not want to interfere in the relationship, because Walter saved his life.

This is a story of two people who are truly in love, but whom the fates keep apart. An old theme, but with a new twist. I found it heart breaking and romantic. I loved the period portrayed. And the love scene atop the blimp is quite something! This film isn't for everyone, but if you like a good romantic tear jerker, this is for you.

Magnificent Movie, Less Than Magnificent DVD
Since the story of "Map of the Human Heart" is found in other reviews on this page, I will focus instead on what makes the film so special and the contents of the DVD.

"Map" is essentially a tried 'n true romantic story of two people who are destined for each other, but separated by fate. What makes this film so wonderful are the spectacular location shots, the superb acting, and the ambition of the storyline.
The most notable sequences are the bombing of Dresden, the "dance" atop the ceiling/roof of the famous Albert Hall theatre, the balloon sequence at the end of the film, and the most indelible site, the love scene atop a barrage balloon. Jason Scott Lee and Ann Parillaud are wonderful in the title roles and Patrick Bergan turns in a really good performance in what may be the most complex character he's ever played (though he does get a "movie star" moment in the film when he dramatically turns around to greet Avik in a London Ballroom).

Special note must be made of the young Avik (Robert Joamie) and Albertine (Annie Galipeau, who possesses an interesting voice to say the least) in the Catholic hospital/school. There is real chemestry present between the actors and it shows. Particularly the scene in which both of them are trying to escape, Albertine gives Avik a knife and says, "Take a part of me.", Avik proceeds to cut off some of her hair, the scene was so moving it left me in tears.

The DVD presentation is really dissapointing considering how long we've had to wait for it. While the movie itself is presented in clean widescreen (using the European cut from what I understand, it's about five minutes longer than the American version), the only extras are four deleted scenes. Three of which take place when Avik & Albertine are at the Catholic hospital/school. Apparently, the "Bunny Ears" deleted scene must be rather infamous considering a promo shot from it is used on the DVD cover. The scene itself looks like it never made it to a preview audience (the film is unprocessed) and it ends with a urination bit that left my jaw on the floor. The deleted scene with Avik tearing a hole through a wall is rather nice, ending with him and Albertine playfully kissing each other.

It's rather puzzling that there were no other extras like a photo gallery (promo photos were used on the menu pages), cast & crew bios, and production notes were put in, in lieu of a director's commentary (which I can understand may have been difficult to get).

"Map of the Human Heart" is one of the finest films ever made that vitually no one has seen. It's well worth seeking out and adding to your collection. Trust me, you will not be dissapointed.

the DVD is finally here
The five stars are for the movie, not necessarily the DVD, which, after an inexplicable wait, has finally arrived on shelves. I'll leave it to others to talk about the movie itself; I'll just make a few points about the DVD.

First of all, you should be aware that this is the European edit, not the American one, which for reasons unknown to me was not the version chosen for the DVD transfer. The American version runs about 109 minutes, the European PAL version about 5 minutes longer. There are a couple of scenes that until now only the Europeans could see (for example, after Walter tells Albertine, "I'd do anything for you," he takes her into the next room where he has secreted a horse into their apartment!). Now this is included. Another difference that will be immediately noticeable is that the voice of Avik and Albertine's daughter is no longer voiced over with that sweet and mellifluous voice, but is now the raucous and heavily accented voice of the actress you see: quite jarring if you've never heard it before. In addition, the European version was much more leisurely with the editing pace (such as during the interview between Avik's daughter and him on the snow: there are many extra lines now), with longer establishing shots, Avik nearly getting run over by a snowplow, etc., and this more relaxed pace has been preserved.

THE GOOD:

1. "Map of the Human Heart" was not filmed in 1.85:1 as I long thought, but full widescreen, 2.35:1, and provided your player is set up to play it, this DVD will play the full "dollar". This is not, however, the tremendous experience rabid fans of this movie might think it is, since I feel director Vincent Ward didn't really use that extra space off to the sides, so you haven't been missing much. As far as I know, ONLY widescreen is available, and no "fullscreen" version of this movie is even offered on DVD. The version you would purchase from this page (ASIN: B0001MDQ58) is letterbox, though Amazon doesn't make that clear.

2. The deleted scenes are interesting but frankly I understand why they wound up on the cutting room floor. There are only four included. I happen to know of a couple of other deleted scenes which were filmed but haven't made it on this disc: Avik in a POW-type convoy after Dresden, and Walter searching among the overturned tables and chairs for the missing Albertine (!) during the final dream sequence with the air balloon. However, I was dumbfounded at the urination sequence!

THE BAD:

1. I was hoping that the subtitles would clarify some lines I've always wondered about, but instead they were poorly done -- evidently by somebody who was in a great hurry or who simply didn't care. Just a couple of irritating examples: When Avik bombs Dresden, the subtitles have him saying, "We are on target," instead of, "What have I done?" Or when Jeanne Moureau as the imperious nun rips the sheet off the two kids, the subtitles have her saying, "The worn skin only stands so much damage," instead of "The walls can only stand so much damage," referring to the kids' hijinks in a scene that didn't make the final cut. Subtitles are also available in Spanish (with the same errors), but not in any other language.

2. There is no commentary or any kind of interview with the director, Ward, or anybody else, such as Louis Nowra or Gabriel Yared. This was a disappointment, even though the quality of Ward's voiceover on the "What Dreams May Come" DVD is less than tremendous.

Incidentally, if anybody knows where principal locations of this film were, I would appreciate the clarification. For example, is there really a "horse" lake in the Midlands? If so, where? And I have heard that the sanatorium is located in Canada but not near Montreal at all... Anybody know?

Deceptively Simply, Beautiful, & Moving ¿ Different
Someone once said, "A story doesn't necessarily have to have happened to be true." This is a wonderful story that provides a unique perspective that rarely is provided in a Hollywood movie. One can study facts and statistics about history, but it takes a story like this for one to begin to understand how it all tied together to define one person's life. Many people can tell you about the US involvement in World War II and the Eskimo culture, but few know how they affected each other. This film does just that with sincere compassion and beautiful cinematography.
When two cultures collide the "assimilation" of one into the other has profound effects. If one assimilates completely into the dominating culture they will lose their heritage. On the other end, if one does not assimilate at all then they will be destroyed, thus unable to pass on their heritage. This movie does not try to make a point about right or wrong, but rather focuses on the human realities of such a conflict. If you enjoyed the book, A Light in the Forest by Conrad Richter, you'll love this movie. Also, this has moving cultural aspects as did "Dances with Wolves," but better represents the "White Cultures" as struggling to protect their ways of life. Finally, for you country music fans, this movie has a plot line somewhat close to that of the song "The Ballad of Ira Hayes" by Johnny Cash (which is a true story). That's all I'm saying - you'll have see it yourself.
The first time I watched this movie was in Alaska with a Siberian Yupik (Eskimo) friend of mine. From both of our perspectives we were impressed with how historically and culturally accurate it seemed to be. The interesting part came at the ending - he expected it, and it caught me with an emotionally gripping surprise I'll never forget.
I own about ten DVDs. I only purchase DVDs if they are magnificent and hard to find. This one is both. ... Read more

Reviews (168)

As much fun as the book...
Movie adaptations of books are prone to disappointment - But not so with this film adaptation of "The Man in the Iron Mask," the third book in the Musketeer trilogy by master Alexandre Dumas.

Unlike the earlier "Three Musketeers" released by Disney (featuring Oliver Platt, Charlie Sheen, Chris O'Donnel and Kiefer Sutherland), which was aimed at a younger audience, "Iron Mask" is aimed at a more sophisticated adult audience. It aims past the raucus swashbuckling (although there is plenty of action to satisfy) and strives toward deeper character development in an almost introspective manner. From d'Artagnan's severe sense of duty to Aramis' penitence to Athos' alternating joie de vivre and ennui to Portos' fatherly love, with an underlying religous tone, the "Iron Mask" underscores the human struggle toward virtue and a supernatural code of morality.

The cast, including Jeremy Irons, Gabriel Byrne, Gerard Depardieu, John Malkovich and DiCaprio) is superb - with the exception that Malkovich's characteristic American accent seems out of place juxtaposed to the more British and French tinge of his fellow musketeers; and, more importantly, that the young DiCaprio (who has since matured) has yet to 'come of age' as an actor in this movie. The direction by "Braveheart"'s Randall Wallace is outstanding, with good cinematography and composition, well-planned pacing and a well-written and edited screenplay adaptation of the work.

Of course, the credit to the success of this movie is that the original work by Dumas is a page-turner literary classic! I highly recommend reading the complete trilogy: "The Three Musketeers," "Twenty Years After" and "The Man in the Iron Mask."

For hands-down the best translation of a Dumas work to film, I highly recommend "The Count of Monte Cristo," featuring the excellent Jim Caviezel.

Not Perfect, but Interesting
This movie is not unlike its central character(s) -- twins separated at birth, developing in two different directions. There's the movie for the squealing teens -- basically Leo DiCaprio, in all kinds of costumes, doing his cute-as-a-button routine as both hero and villain. Then there's the movie for everybody else -- a somber, complex story full of superb middle-aged actors who finally find honor and redemption at too high a cost. The two sides of the movie do fit together -- DiCaprio is a surprisingly good actor when he has the likes of Malkovich and Gabriel Byrne feeding him his cues -- but the fit is never perfect. The old guard side of the story is slow-paced at times, because it develops a personal plot line for every single Musketeer, but it gets there in the end. If you like the movie the first time, a re-watching will bring up new and interesting nuances. The best thing in the film (if you're not female and 17) is John Malkovich, whose version of Athos jumps believably from homicidal obsessive to loving father figure without ever touching middle ground. The movie is too flawed to be called 'great,' but what it does well it does very, very well.

True to Dumas
I have read the entire Musketeer series. This version closely tracks its written counterpart. It was well acted and involved the viewer in both the comedy and pathos Dumas was expert at entertaining his readers with. I was actually surprised by diCaprio's performance. I thought he showed great versatility in playing the dual roles. I loved Jeremy Irons in the role of d'Artagnan and I really liked Depardieu too in the role of Porthos. I have played my copy several times for guests in my home. It is a movie that engenders thought about good and evil and shows that, sometimes, it is important to do the right thing --- just because it is right to do.

Starry show for "Man in the Iron Mask"
"THe man in the iron mask" is probably best known for being DiCaprios first film after Titanic, and probably all that itll be remembered, or thanked for. The plot is twisted like much of Dumas' novels in recent film adaptions (such as "The Count of MOnte Cristo")but is still a good film to watch, once you can look over some imperfections in the various actors accents and very television-like twist at the end, that does pose as a suprise to a viewer, whether s/he has read the Musketeer novels or not.
The costumes and scenery are georgous. The huge budget shows not only in the starry cast on show, but in the quality of the interiors of Marseilles and the country side exteriors for Philippes transformation and training. The acting is spontaneous although it plays like a pantomine at times (such as Depardieu's consistent farting and incompetence with three women at one time. Malcovich mid-west accent and Iron's noble countenance somehow match (similar to "Dangerous Liasons" with Close and Malkovich)and Byrnes tragic/romantic/hero passes not exactly for the D'Artanian of the popular screen, his Irish accent also is another mix in the bake.
The directing makes the most of all that is on offer (such as the musketeers charging into musket fire, elaborate chase scenes on the kidnapping of the king and the squalor of the Bastille) and the music complements each scene beautifully that it stands out.
"Man in the Iron Mask" is overall a good film, not a landmark adaptation, but good entertainment of a better quality.

Really fine movie
I bought this movie only recently and really liked it.
I thought EVERYONE was utterly convincing and excellent especially Leo who plays both evil and innocent equally well.
However does anybody note here that something is brought in that was in no other version and not the book : Dartagnan is the father of the king and his brother?
Hmmmm.
But EXCELLENT FILM and I recomment it. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Truly delightful vampire black comedy.
Innocent Blood is one of my top five favorite vampire movies. Definitely not run of the mill, it ranks with The Lost Boys; Near Dark and The Hunger as a vampire tale with a difference. Starring the visually stunning Anne Parillaud as a vampire with a conscience and a little bit more on her mind than biting every neck in the neighborhood. Pittsburgh, PA does the catering for her particular tastes. Anne is supported by Anthony LaPaglia as the cop who doesn't know whether to love her or run for cover, not being sure what part of her menu he's on, the main course or an extended dessert. Innocent Blood contains, in my opinion, one of the steamiest love scenes on film between these two. The cast is enhanced further by Robert Loggia as the gritty mob boss whose appetite for garlic is not shared by our lissome vapire and Don Rickles, the mob's lawyer who learns a whole new meaning for steak tartare. Definitely not for the kiddies, Innocent Blood is a vampiric romp with all the gore and mayhem any bloodsucker could desire with an ending that will leave you all asking the question, "Will love find a way?"

Sexy, dark film with some comedic moments.
I was pleasantly surprised by "Innocent Blood". Based on the concept that there are good vampires, and then there are others. Anne Parrilaud (from La Femme Nikita) is Marie, a vampire who only kills evil people. She didn't ASK to become a vampire, but since the process is not reversible, she is at least a 'considerate' vampire. She is always careful to 'finish her food', by performing a "central nervous system disconnect", in order to prevent them from rising as one of the 'undead', and becoming a vampire like herself. She is quite enchanting in her role. She crosses paths with some mafioso, broadly played by Robert Loggia, Don Rickles (his attorney), and friends. There is quite a lot of profanity tossed around by the bad guys, as in "Don't touch the f***ing car". The movie would have been as good without it, but I have known actual people who spoke in this manner constantly. There is also considerable blood and gore. I suppose it just isn't easy to rip out the side of someones' neck with your teeth without making a mess, and the film shows this in some detail. The story revolves around what happens when one of Maries 'meals' is interrupted, and she isn't able to perform the central nervous disconnect. The result is that this particular entree (Robert Loggia) does indeed rise again, while in the morgue no less, just before being cut into by a very puzzled Frank Oz. He proceeds to recruit others in his "family" while Marie and a police detective with very mixed feelings try to prevent the (ahem) "born-again" mobsters from taking over the city.
The detective is played by Anthony LaPaglia, and when he initially discovers Maries' true identity, he is very repulsed. However, she convinces him that she isn't such a monster, and eventually they become quite close. The scene when she finally wins him over is quite stimulating, some viewers may need to take a cold shower before finishing the movie : )
The film has numerous moments of subtle humor: A running gag in which a security guard is watching old movies on tv, while missing something important happening on the closed circuit monitors. Or the selection of CD's in one of the mobsters cars is shown to be all Frank Sinatra. There are frequent scenes where various television sets just happen to be showing various old Dracula movies, including the original with Bela Lugosi, as well as some newer ones which viewers may recognize. The humor is not of the 'knee slapping' type, but I was amused.
I really did enjoy Anne Parrilauds' portrayal of Marie. She is far and away the sexiest vampire I've ever seen, bar none. I would estimate that this movie would appeal to those who enjoyed "American Werewolf in London" (same director, John Landis), or who like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". It's a dark movie, but with some funny moments, and some VERY sexy moments, thrown in for good measure. This film answers the question "What happens when vampires become aroused?" I now know the answer, and if you watch, you will too.

Never Play With The Food
John Landis made a splash with An American Werewolf in London (a film he wrote in high school). But as fun as parts were, we always new it had to end in tragedy. That is not the case with Landis's look into vampire mythology and Innocent Blood.

The film opens with a beautiful nude vampire Marie (Anne Parillaud) strutting about her apartment and planning her next meal. She has a conscience and is looking through the papers for real criminals to taste. She lives by a strict code (never play with the food, always finish the food, etc.). But things take a turn when she targets some local gangsters.

Her first target doesn't seem right . In reality he is a cop in deep cover. But she quickly finds a true gangster. Then, when she is really annoyed by Sallie, the head of the family, she goes after him (Robert Loggia) but is interrupted before she can finish him and ensure he does not rise. Sal, street-smart man that he is, quickly sees the advantages of being a vampire and sets out to convert the whole organization.

Now Marie must try and put a stop to what she created. To do this she needs the help of the man who lived with the family for two years. Her knowledge of what Sallie is combines with his knowledge of what Sallie was and a new type of turf war begins.

This is a wonderful film. Marie really is a sympathetic character although she can use a smile in extremely manipulative ways. Romance and an amazing handcuff scene round out the crime, vampires and killing. Landis could not have done better.

I loved this movie when I was little
The packing house used in this movie was actually right down the street from my old house, and I remember that for about a week, everyone on the street would stand outside and watch. My Mom even had the opportunity to go to lunch with the one actor, which she turned down. When I finally saw Innocent Blood a few years after it was released, I was hooked, and I watched it over and over and over again(I was 8, so its no wonder I'm so strange now. lol). Anyway, it's a pretty good movie, and any fan of vampire movies should see it.

I LOVED ANNES BODY
MISS PARILUND HAS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BODY I'VE EVER SEEN OUTSIDE OF A PORNAGRAPHIC MOVIE AND SEEMS TO ENJOY SHOWING IT OFF,THE PLOT FEATURED HER SENSE OF HUMOR AS WELL,TOO BAD WOMEN LIKE THIS CAN'T JUMP OFF THE SCREEN!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Truly delightful vampire black comedy.
Innocent Blood is one of my top five favorite vampire movies. Definitely not run of the mill, it ranks with The Lost Boys; Near Dark and The Hunger as a vampire tale with a difference. Starring the visually stunning Anne Parillaud as a vampire with a conscience and a little bit more on her mind than biting every neck in the neighborhood. Pittsburgh, PA does the catering for her particular tastes. Anne is supported by Anthony LaPaglia as the cop who doesn't know whether to love her or run for cover, not being sure what part of her menu he's on, the main course or an extended dessert. Innocent Blood contains, in my opinion, one of the steamiest love scenes on film between these two. The cast is enhanced further by Robert Loggia as the gritty mob boss whose appetite for garlic is not shared by our lissome vapire and Don Rickles, the mob's lawyer who learns a whole new meaning for steak tartare. Definitely not for the kiddies, Innocent Blood is a vampiric romp with all the gore and mayhem any bloodsucker could desire with an ending that will leave you all asking the question, "Will love find a way?"

Sexy, dark film with some comedic moments.
I was pleasantly surprised by "Innocent Blood". Based on the concept that there are good vampires, and then there are others. Anne Parrilaud (from La Femme Nikita) is Marie, a vampire who only kills evil people. She didn't ASK to become a vampire, but since the process is not reversible, she is at least a 'considerate' vampire. She is always careful to 'finish her food', by performing a "central nervous system disconnect", in order to prevent them from rising as one of the 'undead', and becoming a vampire like herself. She is quite enchanting in her role. She crosses paths with some mafioso, broadly played by Robert Loggia, Don Rickles (his attorney), and friends. There is quite a lot of profanity tossed around by the bad guys, as in "Don't touch the f***ing car". The movie would have been as good without it, but I have known actual people who spoke in this manner constantly. There is also considerable blood and gore. I suppose it just isn't easy to rip out the side of someones' neck with your teeth without making a mess, and the film shows this in some detail. The story revolves around what happens when one of Maries 'meals' is interrupted, and she isn't able to perform the central nervous disconnect. The result is that this particular entree (Robert Loggia) does indeed rise again, while in the morgue no less, just before being cut into by a very puzzled Frank Oz. He proceeds to recruit others in his "family" while Marie and a police detective with very mixed feelings try to prevent the (ahem) "born-again" mobsters from taking over the city.
The detective is played by Anthony LaPaglia, and when he initially discovers Maries' true identity, he is very repulsed. However, she convinces him that she isn't such a monster, and eventually they become quite close. The scene when she finally wins him over is quite stimulating, some viewers may need to take a cold shower before finishing the movie : )
The film has numerous moments of subtle humor: A running gag in which a security guard is watching old movies on tv, while missing something important happening on the closed circuit monitors. Or the selection of CD's in one of the mobsters cars is shown to be all Frank Sinatra. There are frequent scenes where various television sets just happen to be showing various old Dracula movies, including the original with Bela Lugosi, as well as some newer ones which viewers may recognize. The humor is not of the 'knee slapping' type, but I was amused.
I really did enjoy Anne Parrilauds' portrayal of Marie. She is far and away the sexiest vampire I've ever seen, bar none. I would estimate that this movie would appeal to those who enjoyed "American Werewolf in London" (same director, John Landis), or who like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". It's a dark movie, but with some funny moments, and some VERY sexy moments, thrown in for good measure. This film answers the question "What happens when vampires become aroused?" I now know the answer, and if you watch, you will too.

Never Play With The Food
John Landis made a splash with An American Werewolf in London (a film he wrote in high school). But as fun as parts were, we always new it had to end in tragedy. That is not the case with Landis's look into vampire mythology and Innocent Blood.

The film opens with a beautiful nude vampire Marie (Anne Parillaud) strutting about her apartment and planning her next meal. She has a conscience and is looking through the papers for real criminals to taste. She lives by a strict code (never play with the food, always finish the food, etc.). But things take a turn when she targets some local gangsters.

Her first target doesn't seem right . In reality he is a cop in deep cover. But she quickly finds a true gangster. Then, when she is really annoyed by Sallie, the head of the family, she goes after him (Robert Loggia) but is interrupted before she can finish him and ensure he does not rise. Sal, street-smart man that he is, quickly sees the advantages of being a vampire and sets out to convert the whole organization.

Now Marie must try and put a stop to what she created. To do this she needs the help of the man who lived with the family for two years. Her knowledge of what Sallie is combines with his knowledge of what Sallie was and a new type of turf war begins.

This is a wonderful film. Marie really is a sympathetic character although she can use a smile in extremely manipulative ways. Romance and an amazing handcuff scene round out the crime, vampires and killing. Landis could not have done better.

I loved this movie when I was little
The packing house used in this movie was actually right down the street from my old house, and I remember that for about a week, everyone on the street would stand outside and watch. My Mom even had the opportunity to go to lunch with the one actor, which she turned down. When I finally saw Innocent Blood a few years after it was released, I was hooked, and I watched it over and over and over again(I was 8, so its no wonder I'm so strange now. lol). Anyway, it's a pretty good movie, and any fan of vampire movies should see it.

I LOVED ANNES BODY
MISS PARILUND HAS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BODY I'VE EVER SEEN OUTSIDE OF A PORNAGRAPHIC MOVIE AND SEEMS TO ENJOY SHOWING IT OFF,THE PLOT FEATURED HER SENSE OF HUMOR AS WELL,TOO BAD WOMEN LIKE THIS CAN'T JUMP OFF THE SCREEN!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (84)

A tour de force!
Why haven't this film been praised in America? It is one of the best films I have ever seen! I know that most people don't like watching foreign films with English subtitles, which is why they miss out on great stories and actors.

La Femme Nikita is the story of a street-smart woman (played by Anne Parillaud) who is kidnapped and trained to become a professional assassin. She has to give up her identity and become the big Government secret. The film has a lot of interesting action scenes -- enough to satisfy the James Bondesque film era. The difference, of course, is that we get to watch a great heroine in action for a change. Also, you will enjoy the strong Pygmalion theme in the film.

I know of people who have seen The Point of No Return (the American version of this film) with Bridget Fonda and the USA Network series based on this film, but the original is always the best. Give this amazing French film a whirl and embark on the experience of great foreign films.

A very different French Foreign Legionnaire
Nikita (Anne Parillaud) is a drug-addicted street urchin who commits murder during a robbery attempt. She is convicted, imprisoned, and executed by lethal injection. Nikita awakens in a Government facility, learns that her family attended her burial, and learns that she has a choice -- become a (disposable) Government agent/assassin or die. Nikita reluctantly chooses life. Nikita is trained in weaponry, hand-to-hand combat, and charm. Nikita accepts all of her training with apathy and disdain, but Nikita survives her training and becomes a Government agent/assassin. And Nikita's missions continuously tear her life apart ...

French director Luc Besson's film "La Femme Nikita" is the basis for the American remake "Point of No Return" starring Bridget Fonda, and also for the "La Femme Nikita" television series. Luc Besson's version is *superior*. Anne Parillaud grows throughout her transformation from hostile street urchin to reluctant Government agent/assassin, combining toughness with *fragile femininity*. Jean-Hugues Anglade plays Nikita's friend Marco who loves and emotionally supports his woman of mystery. Jean Reno ("The Professional") plays 'The Cleaner', the assassin who arrives when one of Nikita's missions goes horribly wrong.

Eric Serra's wonderful jazz score, the European setting, the flowing French dialogue, and Anne Parillaud's tough but fragile femininity combine to make "La Femme Nikita" a memorable film.

Nikita
After a bloody shootout at a pharmacy where all of her gang memeber friends are killed, Nikita (Parillaud), high on drugs, kills a policeman in cold blood and is captured and judged for the murder. However, instead of the gas chamber, she gets recruited to a top secret government agency to be trained as an agent.

At first, she's confused with the situation, but soon enough she's back to normal, not caring for anything around her and acting like the social misfit she is. All the while there's Bob (Karyo), the agent assigned to her case. He treats Nikita like he couldn't care less for her, yet finds her rather amusing and interesting. Even when his superior tells him that she'll never make it, he insists that she has the stuff to be a good agent.

After a while, Nikita comes around and accepts her fate. She continues her training up to the point that three years pass. She's now ready to go back to the real world and Bob chooses her birthday to take her out to a restaurant on what turns out to be more of a mission than a date.

Once outside, Nikita meets Marco (Anglade), who works as a cashier at a supermarket. They fall in love and move together, but their happiness is continuosly interrupted by Bob and the missions he sends Nikita on.

Will Nikita be able to balance her double life? Will Marco figure the whole thing out?

Besson threads an interesting story using well developed characters (the movie revolves around these three characters basically) and interesting set ups for Nikita's missions. The action scenes are well crafted and the acting is really good.

There's a brief appearance by Jean Reno (The Crimson Rivers, León) as another hit man.

This film was the basis for the Peta Wilson TV series and also for an American remake starring Bridget Fonda.

Riveting Action
Director Luc Besson gets it. Besson, a Frenchman no less, understands what separates a juvenile, mindless action movie from a truly smart, devilishly suspensful cinema experience. Using a clever hybrid of European sensuality and sophistication, along with American notions of wild gunplay and bloodshed, Besson weaves an absorbing tale of murder and betrayal. His characters are chilling and relatively simple, while the world they inhabit is explicitly cosmopolitan in its cross Atlantic treachery. Besson sees the tools this setting offers and pushes them to the figurative hilt.

The intriguing story centers around Nikita, a lithe and skillful street urchin played by the violently harried Anne Parillaud. An urban nomad, Nikita is picked up by the mysterious Rico, a role assumed by the ashen faced operator Marc Duret. Rico's motives are unclear at first, but it soon becomes clear that he is not some agent of charity, he is dedicated to molding Nikitas mind in a certain, deadly way. Using her own isolation and his own psychological tricks, Rico, with the help of others in the "group", Rico begins to train Nikita in the arts of death and stealthy assassination. Benefitting a shadowy branch of the French government, Nikita will become an undercover killing machine, moving in and out of various international locales and dispatching her targets ruthlessly. Along the way, Rico must break her spirit, an extremely difficult task, and then rebuild her, teaching her the suave arts of high society and the brute tactics of international murder.

Although Nikita resists, she soon gains a reliance on her new teachers, especially Rico, who has a feeling about her. His support is rewarded as Nikita takes to the field for the first time, and the audience is treated to a ripping good action scene. Nikita assumes a somewhat normal life, striking up a relationship, living a life unknown to her. Of course, as she gallavants around the continent, she is forced to pull off daunting and extreme hits, which are portrayed lovingly by Besson. The strange connection between Nikita and Rico begin to strain as Nikita feels the emotional considerable stress of living two lives at once. Her position becomes more untenable as she becomes wrapped up into a violent spiral of severely unethical murder, including the murderously adriot personage of Jean Reno, who wields his 9mm like some kind of quasi-mythical broadsword. His extreme mission and its repercussions soon toss Nikita into a very dangerous position, and theres only one way out. You guessed it, shooting.

La Femme Nikita is one of those movies that just never stops impressing the viewer with its sheer audacity. The spirit it conveys, one of shady slaughter and grand stage is just mesmerizing, and the simple but layered characters bring their own murderious tint to the whole spectacle. A great example of what a smart action movie can be.

sensitive and dangerous
Sensitive, sophisticated, violent, and exquisite are some of the adjectives that could best describe this tour de force movie by Luc Besson. Unlike most action movies which depend on high body counts and explosives, this movie moves carefully forward as Nikita is transformed from a drug using criminial to a controlled killer. Besides the story, I especially enjoyed the view of french culture. Parisian restaurants, apartments, and gritty streets are beautifully filmed by Besson. Most importantly, the movie contains a female lead character which contrasts Hollywood's obsession with testosterone filled actors who can never enunciate their words. Nikita is played brilliantly. In fact, Nikita hardly speaks throughout the film, yet the viewer can still observe her true character. In my opinion that is an example of brilliant film making. Do yourself a favor and buy this DVD. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Truly delightful vampire black comedy.
Innocent Blood is one of my top five favorite vampire movies. Definitely not run of the mill, it ranks with The Lost Boys; Near Dark and The Hunger as a vampire tale with a difference. Starring the visually stunning Anne Parillaud as a vampire with a conscience and a little bit more on her mind than biting every neck in the neighborhood. Pittsburgh, PA does the catering for her particular tastes. Anne is supported by Anthony LaPaglia as the cop who doesn't know whether to love her or run for cover, not being sure what part of her menu he's on, the main course or an extended dessert. Innocent Blood contains, in my opinion, one of the steamiest love scenes on film between these two. The cast is enhanced further by Robert Loggia as the gritty mob boss whose appetite for garlic is not shared by our lissome vapire and Don Rickles, the mob's lawyer who learns a whole new meaning for steak tartare. Definitely not for the kiddies, Innocent Blood is a vampiric romp with all the gore and mayhem any bloodsucker could desire with an ending that will leave you all asking the question, "Will love find a way?"

Sexy, dark film with some comedic moments.
I was pleasantly surprised by "Innocent Blood". Based on the concept that there are good vampires, and then there are others. Anne Parrilaud (from La Femme Nikita) is Marie, a vampire who only kills evil people. She didn't ASK to become a vampire, but since the process is not reversible, she is at least a 'considerate' vampire. She is always careful to 'finish her food', by performing a "central nervous system disconnect", in order to prevent them from rising as one of the 'undead', and becoming a vampire like herself. She is quite enchanting in her role. She crosses paths with some mafioso, broadly played by Robert Loggia, Don Rickles (his attorney), and friends. There is quite a lot of profanity tossed around by the bad guys, as in "Don't touch the f***ing car". The movie would have been as good without it, but I have known actual people who spoke in this manner constantly. There is also considerable blood and gore. I suppose it just isn't easy to rip out the side of someones' neck with your teeth without making a mess, and the film shows this in some detail. The story revolves around what happens when one of Maries 'meals' is interrupted, and she isn't able to perform the central nervous disconnect. The result is that this particular entree (Robert Loggia) does indeed rise again, while in the morgue no less, just before being cut into by a very puzzled Frank Oz. He proceeds to recruit others in his "family" while Marie and a police detective with very mixed feelings try to prevent the (ahem) "born-again" mobsters from taking over the city.
The detective is played by Anthony LaPaglia, and when he initially discovers Maries' true identity, he is very repulsed. However, she convinces him that she isn't such a monster, and eventually they become quite close. The scene when she finally wins him over is quite stimulating, some viewers may need to take a cold shower before finishing the movie : )
The film has numerous moments of subtle humor: A running gag in which a security guard is watching old movies on tv, while missing something important happening on the closed circuit monitors. Or the selection of CD's in one of the mobsters cars is shown to be all Frank Sinatra. There are frequent scenes where various television sets just happen to be showing various old Dracula movies, including the original with Bela Lugosi, as well as some newer ones which viewers may recognize. The humor is not of the 'knee slapping' type, but I was amused.
I really did enjoy Anne Parrilauds' portrayal of Marie. She is far and away the sexiest vampire I've ever seen, bar none. I would estimate that this movie would appeal to those who enjoyed "American Werewolf in London" (same director, John Landis), or who like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". It's a dark movie, but with some funny moments, and some VERY sexy moments, thrown in for good measure. This film answers the question "What happens when vampires become aroused?" I now know the answer, and if you watch, you will too.

Never Play With The Food
John Landis made a splash with An American Werewolf in London (a film he wrote in high school). But as fun as parts were, we always new it had to end in tragedy. That is not the case with Landis's look into vampire mythology and Innocent Blood.

The film opens with a beautiful nude vampire Marie (Anne Parillaud) strutting about her apartment and planning her next meal. She has a conscience and is looking through the papers for real criminals to taste. She lives by a strict code (never play with the food, always finish the food, etc.). But things take a turn when she targets some local gangsters.

Her first target doesn't seem right . In reality he is a cop in deep cover. But she quickly finds a true gangster. Then, when she is really annoyed by Sallie, the head of the family, she goes after him (Robert Loggia) but is interrupted before she can finish him and ensure he does not rise. Sal, street-smart man that he is, quickly sees the advantages of being a vampire and sets out to convert the whole organization.

Now Marie must try and put a stop to what she created. To do this she needs the help of the man who lived with the family for two years. Her knowledge of what Sallie is combines with his knowledge of what Sallie was and a new type of turf war begins.

This is a wonderful film. Marie really is a sympathetic character although she can use a smile in extremely manipulative ways. Romance and an amazing handcuff scene round out the crime, vampires and killing. Landis could not have done better.

I loved this movie when I was little
The packing house used in this movie was actually right down the street from my old house, and I remember that for about a week, everyone on the street would stand outside and watch. My Mom even had the opportunity to go to lunch with the one actor, which she turned down. When I finally saw Innocent Blood a few years after it was released, I was hooked, and I watched it over and over and over again(I was 8, so its no wonder I'm so strange now. lol). Anyway, it's a pretty good movie, and any fan of vampire movies should see it.

I LOVED ANNES BODY
MISS PARILUND HAS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BODY I'VE EVER SEEN OUTSIDE OF A PORNAGRAPHIC MOVIE AND SEEMS TO ENJOY SHOWING IT OFF,THE PLOT FEATURED HER SENSE OF HUMOR AS WELL,TOO BAD WOMEN LIKE THIS CAN'T JUMP OFF THE SCREEN!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Truly delightful vampire black comedy.
Innocent Blood is one of my top five favorite vampire movies. Definitely not run of the mill, it ranks with The Lost Boys; Near Dark and The Hunger as a vampire tale with a difference. Starring the visually stunning Anne Parillaud as a vampire with a conscience and a little bit more on her mind than biting every neck in the neighborhood. Pittsburgh, PA does the catering for her particular tastes. Anne is supported by Anthony LaPaglia as the cop who doesn't know whether to love her or run for cover, not being sure what part of her menu he's on, the main course or an extended dessert. Innocent Blood contains, in my opinion, one of the steamiest love scenes on film between these two. The cast is enhanced further by Robert Loggia as the gritty mob boss whose appetite for garlic is not shared by our lissome vapire and Don Rickles, the mob's lawyer who learns a whole new meaning for steak tartare. Definitely not for the kiddies, Innocent Blood is a vampiric romp with all the gore and mayhem any bloodsucker could desire with an ending that will leave you all asking the question, "Will love find a way?"

Sexy, dark film with some comedic moments.
I was pleasantly surprised by "Innocent Blood". Based on the concept that there are good vampires, and then there are others. Anne Parrilaud (from La Femme Nikita) is Marie, a vampire who only kills evil people. She didn't ASK to become a vampire, but since the process is not reversible, she is at least a 'considerate' vampire. She is always careful to 'finish her food', by performing a "central nervous system disconnect", in order to prevent them from rising as one of the 'undead', and becoming a vampire like herself. She is quite enchanting in her role. She crosses paths with some mafioso, broadly played by Robert Loggia, Don Rickles (his attorney), and friends. There is quite a lot of profanity tossed around by the bad guys, as in "Don't touch the f***ing car". The movie would have been as good without it, but I have known actual people who spoke in this manner constantly. There is also considerable blood and gore. I suppose it just isn't easy to rip out the side of someones' neck with your teeth without making a mess, and the film shows this in some detail. The story revolves around what happens when one of Maries 'meals' is interrupted, and she isn't able to perform the central nervous disconnect. The result is that this particular entree (Robert Loggia) does indeed rise again, while in the morgue no less, just before being cut into by a very puzzled Frank Oz. He proceeds to recruit others in his "family" while Marie and a police detective with very mixed feelings try to prevent the (ahem) "born-again" mobsters from taking over the city.
The detective is played by Anthony LaPaglia, and when he initially discovers Maries' true identity, he is very repulsed. However, she convinces him that she isn't such a monster, and eventually they become quite close. The scene when she finally wins him over is quite stimulating, some viewers may need to take a cold shower before finishing the movie : )
The film has numerous moments of subtle humor: A running gag in which a security guard is watching old movies on tv, while missing something important happening on the closed circuit monitors. Or the selection of CD's in one of the mobsters cars is shown to be all Frank Sinatra. There are frequent scenes where various television sets just happen to be showing various old Dracula movies, including the original with Bela Lugosi, as well as some newer ones which viewers may recognize. The humor is not of the 'knee slapping' type, but I was amused.
I really did enjoy Anne Parrilauds' portrayal of Marie. She is far and away the sexiest vampire I've ever seen, bar none. I would estimate that this movie would appeal to those who enjoyed "American Werewolf in London" (same director, John Landis), or who like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". It's a dark movie, but with some funny moments, and some VERY sexy moments, thrown in for good measure. This film answers the question "What happens when vampires become aroused?" I now know the answer, and if you watch, you will too.

Never Play With The Food
John Landis made a splash with An American Werewolf in London (a film he wrote in high school). But as fun as parts were, we always new it had to end in tragedy. That is not the case with Landis's look into vampire mythology and Innocent Blood.

The film opens with a beautiful nude vampire Marie (Anne Parillaud) strutting about her apartment and planning her next meal. She has a conscience and is looking through the papers for real criminals to taste. She lives by a strict code (never play with the food, always finish the food, etc.). But things take a turn when she targets some local gangsters.

Her first target doesn't seem right . In reality he is a cop in deep cover. But she quickly finds a true gangster. Then, when she is really annoyed by Sallie, the head of the family, she goes after him (Robert Loggia) but is interrupted before she can finish him and ensure he does not rise. Sal, street-smart man that he is, quickly sees the advantages of being a vampire and sets out to convert the whole organization.

Now Marie must try and put a stop to what she created. To do this she needs the help of the man who lived with the family for two years. Her knowledge of what Sallie is combines with his knowledge of what Sallie was and a new type of turf war begins.

This is a wonderful film. Marie really is a sympathetic character although she can use a smile in extremely manipulative ways. Romance and an amazing handcuff scene round out the crime, vampires and killing. Landis could not have done better.

I loved this movie when I was little
The packing house used in this movie was actually right down the street from my old house, and I remember that for about a week, everyone on the street would stand outside and watch. My Mom even had the opportunity to go to lunch with the one actor, which she turned down. When I finally saw Innocent Blood a few years after it was released, I was hooked, and I watched it over and over and over again(I was 8, so its no wonder I'm so strange now. lol). Anyway, it's a pretty good movie, and any fan of vampire movies should see it.

I LOVED ANNES BODY
MISS PARILUND HAS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BODY I'VE EVER SEEN OUTSIDE OF A PORNAGRAPHIC MOVIE AND SEEMS TO ENJOY SHOWING IT OFF,THE PLOT FEATURED HER SENSE OF HUMOR AS WELL,TOO BAD WOMEN LIKE THIS CAN'T JUMP OFF THE SCREEN!!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

There are times when Raul Ruiz's maddening and mesmerizing film resembles a direct-to-video erotic thriller in which rampant clichés collide in scenes surreal in their straight-faced silliness. And there are moments when the fractured narrative and stylistic shards create a sophisticated study in alienation and disconnection. These elements often coexist in the same scenes. Ruiz is a master craftsman whose cinematic intelligence is put to the process of storytelling as much as to the telling of stories. Here he has two tales that intertwine through dreams and fantasies, bouncing off of and commenting on one another. Anne Parillaud stars as a lethal, world-weary assassin in the first and as a skittish, wide-eyed newlywed in the other. When one falls asleep the other wakes up, as if it were all a dream, but we're never sure which one (if either) is real. When the assassin takes a job that targets her lover (William Baldwin) and the newlywed suspects her husband (Baldwin again) of a plot against her life, it becomes clear that their relationship is far more than a schizophrenic split. Pinging against the narrative sophistication and deliriously rich images are creaky B-movie twists and hoary performances by Baldwin and femme fatale Lisanne Falk. The result is a film that defies its own conventions, like a parody of bad thrillers executed with the assured brilliance of a cinematic genius. It may not always work, but it never fails to astonish. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (7)

"Where does the dream end and reality begin?"
In "Shattered Image," the line between reality and fantasy is blurred when two characters (both played by Anne Parillaud) start appearing in each other's dreams. Like the majority of actors in this movie (William Baldwin, Lisanne Falk, and Graham Greene), Parillaud plays dual roles: one being a weak young woman named Jessie Markham who recently married Brian (Baldwin) and is currently honeymooning in Jamaica with him; the other Jessie is a blunt hit woman who is hired to kill Conrad Reynolds (also played by Baldwin). Their lives begin to intertwine and mirror each other's as the movie progresses, cumulating in a somewhat predictable ending.

"Shattered Image" had the potential to be a good erotic thriller, but with a bad script and poor acting, it didn't quite make it that far. William Baldwin does make for pleasant eye candy, but I bought this movie mainly for Anne Parillaud, who I thought was terrific in "La Femme Nikita," playing a role similar to the one in this movie--an assassin. However, "Shattered Image" doesn't have as much appeal as "La Femme Nikita." In fact, I found very little appealing about this movie. It's long, complex, and hard to follow. I had to replay it a couple of times to really understand what was going on, and even now I'm not so sure I get it. Besides the cinematography, I can't find very much else worth praising about this movie. Unless you're a big fan of one of the actors or actresses, I'd skip this one.

Worth a See! 3 1/2 stars!
Even though this film is a bit slow-moving, it is worth a see! Anne Parrillaud seems to go back and forth between two dreams -- and the viewer tries to figure out which one is reality. I figured out what was going on before it ended -- so I won't give it away, but if you've ever wondered what it's like to be in a coma and come out of it -- then this film is worth the watch. From the point of view of someone who has been in a coma for 5-6 weeks and has come out of it, it's a scary place to be and this film is one of the only films that I think could give someone an idea of what the experience is like.

A waste of time
What can I say? After wasting too much time watching it, the movie still made no sense to me at the end. I like movies that make sense, or have some artistic unity. The acting was poor and flat in tone, perhaps because the actors were constantly asking themselves "How did I let myself get trapped into making this movie?".

Worth a look for fans of off-beat cinema
The film is strange...it's best to watch it having no concept of what's going to happen, so I'm certainly not going to spill the beans, suffice to say it's a film sure to attract a cult following.

I give the stars to Anne
I used to love Billy Baldwin. Then I read an article where he really downtalked one of his former stars, Sharon Stone. Now every time I see him in a romantic movie with someone, I think, well, is he gonna go and talk bad about this person too? The movie was ok, not great, but ok. ... Read more

Reviews (84)

A tour de force!
Why haven't this film been praised in America? It is one of the best films I have ever seen! I know that most people don't like watching foreign films with English subtitles, which is why they miss out on great stories and actors.

La Femme Nikita is the story of a street-smart woman (played by Anne Parillaud) who is kidnapped and trained to become a professional assassin. She has to give up her identity and become the big Government secret. The film has a lot of interesting action scenes -- enough to satisfy the James Bondesque film era. The difference, of course, is that we get to watch a great heroine in action for a change. Also, you will enjoy the strong Pygmalion theme in the film.

I know of people who have seen The Point of No Return (the American version of this film) with Bridget Fonda and the USA Network series based on this film, but the original is always the best. Give this amazing French film a whirl and embark on the experience of great foreign films.

A very different French Foreign Legionnaire
Nikita (Anne Parillaud) is a drug-addicted street urchin who commits murder during a robbery attempt. She is convicted, imprisoned, and executed by lethal injection. Nikita awakens in a Government facility, learns that her family attended her burial, and learns that she has a choice -- become a (disposable) Government agent/assassin or die. Nikita reluctantly chooses life. Nikita is trained in weaponry, hand-to-hand combat, and charm. Nikita accepts all of her training with apathy and disdain, but Nikita survives her training and becomes a Government agent/assassin. And Nikita's missions continuously tear her life apart ...

French director Luc Besson's film "La Femme Nikita" is the basis for the American remake "Point of No Return" starring Bridget Fonda, and also for the "La Femme Nikita" television series. Luc Besson's version is *superior*. Anne Parillaud grows throughout her transformation from hostile street urchin to reluctant Government agent/assassin, combining toughness with *fragile femininity*. Jean-Hugues Anglade plays Nikita's friend Marco who loves and emotionally supports his woman of mystery. Jean Reno ("The Professional") plays 'The Cleaner', the assassin who arrives when one of Nikita's missions goes horribly wrong.

Eric Serra's wonderful jazz score, the European setting, the flowing French dialogue, and Anne Parillaud's tough but fragile femininity combine to make "La Femme Nikita" a memorable film.

Nikita
After a bloody shootout at a pharmacy where all of her gang memeber friends are killed, Nikita (Parillaud), high on drugs, kills a policeman in cold blood and is captured and judged for the murder. However, instead of the gas chamber, she gets recruited to a top secret government agency to be trained as an agent.

At first, she's confused with the situation, but soon enough she's back to normal, not caring for anything around her and acting like the social misfit she is. All the while there's Bob (Karyo), the agent assigned to her case. He treats Nikita like he couldn't care less for her, yet finds her rather amusing and interesting. Even when his superior tells him that she'll never make it, he insists that she has the stuff to be a good agent.

After a while, Nikita comes around and accepts her fate. She continues her training up to the point that three years pass. She's now ready to go back to the real world and Bob chooses her birthday to take her out to a restaurant on what turns out to be more of a mission than a date.

Once outside, Nikita meets Marco (Anglade), who works as a cashier at a supermarket. They fall in love and move together, but their happiness is continuosly interrupted by Bob and the missions he sends Nikita on.

Will Nikita be able to balance her double life? Will Marco figure the whole thing out?

Besson threads an interesting story using well developed characters (the movie revolves around these three characters basically) and interesting set ups for Nikita's missions. The action scenes are well crafted and the acting is really good.

There's a brief appearance by Jean Reno (The Crimson Rivers, León) as another hit man.

This film was the basis for the Peta Wilson TV series and also for an American remake starring Bridget Fonda.

Riveting Action
Director Luc Besson gets it. Besson, a Frenchman no less, understands what separates a juvenile, mindless action movie from a truly smart, devilishly suspensful cinema experience. Using a clever hybrid of European sensuality and sophistication, along with American notions of wild gunplay and bloodshed, Besson weaves an absorbing tale of murder and betrayal. His characters are chilling and relatively simple, while the world they inhabit is explicitly cosmopolitan in its cross Atlantic treachery. Besson sees the tools this setting offers and pushes them to the figurative hilt.

The intriguing story centers around Nikita, a lithe and skillful street urchin played by the violently harried Anne Parillaud. An urban nomad, Nikita is picked up by the mysterious Rico, a role assumed by the ashen faced operator Marc Duret. Rico's motives are unclear at first, but it soon becomes clear that he is not some agent of charity, he is dedicated to molding Nikitas mind in a certain, deadly way. Using her own isolation and his own psychological tricks, Rico, with the help of others in the "group", Rico begins to train Nikita in the arts of death and