Film Review - Ronin
Honestly, I have to say, that as much as I liked this film, it was a disappointment. Although the photography is just spectacular, and the car chase scenes rival Bullet, the paper-thin story kills the movie.
As I mentioned, the photography is spectacular. Ronin was shot largely on location in Europe in cities with narrow streets, and stone buildings. Cinematographer Elia Cmiral deserves praise for consistently lighting sets in such a way that the audience is very much drawn into the picture. Cmiral's work is the jewel of the film.
And as I mentioned, the car chase scenes will get your heart racing. These scenes brought new realism to the chase by hiding the stunt driver, and putting the stars of the film in the "driver's seat" making it appear that De Niro's character is actually flying this car through town and near warp speed.
The story is what sucks, and there is no saving it. There is no point at the end; it just falls apart. If you want to see great photography or great car chases, by all means see Ronin, but be informed, that's all you'll get.
Film Facts
Directed by John Frankenheimer
Released in 1998
MPAA Rating: R
Reviewed by Mongo