MOVIE REVIEW

Order, The  (2003)

Starring: Heath Ledger, Benno Fürmann, et al.
Director: Brian Helgeland

Rating: R

Studio: 20th Century Fox

Release Date: 9.05.03

Review Posted: 9.08.03

Spoilers: Minor

By Rachel Sexton

Story, Performances Make "The Order" Worthwhile

Writer/director Brian Helgeland must delight in incongruity. His last film, A Knight's Tale, freely used modern sports anthems in a medieval setting and was effective entertainment. His latest film, The Order, teams him with most of the cast members from that film and features incongruity as well. The Order is a contemporary religious thriller that doesn't quite reach its full potential.

Heath Ledger stars as Alex, a young Catholic priest whose mentor is killed, leading him to discover the last of the Sin Eaters: a man outside the Church who can give absolution to the dying by "eating" their sins, played by Benno Fürmann. I'm not sure how authentic this is, but the world of the film creates the scenario quite well. This also connects to the American cardinal who is likely to become the next Pope, played by Peter Weller (Robocop).

The script is what could be improved. There are some genuinely striking moments here both visually and emotionally, but there needs to be a bit more explanation on a plot detail or two. The premise of the Sin Eater is an intriguing one and the plot point that begins the third act is amazing.

Aside from the religious matter, the basic story line is good, especially the ending. It is unpredictable and satisfying. Throughout, the tone and atmosphere created are heavy, though at times inconsistent. The romance subplot between Alex and Mara, played by Shannyn Sossamon, could use a little tweaking as well. (Though the love scene is great!)

David Torn's film score combines the religious and thriller tone well. Also, the sets look pretty good. Some of the lighting could have been improved, but I like the way Heath's voice-over began and ended the film. The rampant religious imagery can't be avoided and I also like the idea that Heath is one of the last of the Carolingian order of priests and the Sin Eater is the last of its practitioners. It's a comparison that underscores an important theme and plot point in the film.

Finally, the performances are perhaps the best thing about the film. Of the support, Mark Addy is good, given both humor and pain to play, and nailing it. Sossamon doesn't have the depth of talent required for her role as of yet. Fürmann is an actor I've wanted to see more of since I saw The Princess and the Warrior. He is good here, speaking English surprisingly well considering he's German, and he even reminds you of Marlon Brando in one moment. This film belongs to Ledger, though, and he is amazing. Charisma carries him far and one scene proves his talent to anyone who might still be unconvinced.

Despite an imperfect script, The Order is a film that will surprise you with a fairly interesting story and worthy performances. A little more tweaking would have improved the film and given it a bit more distinction.

Rating: êêê1/2  (out of 5)

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