Rating: 
Summary: An absolutely first rate sea yarn
Review: This isn't quite an updating of MOBY DICK. It lacks the metaphysical and religious elements, but just as Ahab is pursing his white whale, so does Capt. "Lucky" Jack Aubrey pursue the French fighting ship Acheron, which is larger, better gunned, and faster than his own H.M.S. Surprise. This is not a deep movie. It is not, like THE LORD OF THE RINGS, a morality tale. It is simply an adventure yarn, but as such, it is one of the most satisfying I have seen in a long while. The movie stars Russell Crowe as Aubrey, and while this isn't one of the more challenging roles he has played, he did his usual stellar job. Paul Bettany has the second lead as Aubrey's close friend, classical music partner, and ship's surgeon Stephen Maturin. The rest of the cast (including Billy Boyd who I saw earlier today as Pippin in RETURN OF THE KING) is uniformly excellent and makes a fine ensemble cast. There is one other costar, and that is the ship used to portray the H.M.S. Surprise. They really went all out in making a perfect recreation of a late 18th century frigate. I kept thinking about the gigantic number of ropes that seemed to be required to make the ship functional. This is a chase movie. There is little or no preface and build up to the action. We are immediately told that the assignment for the Surprise is to find and capture or sink the French ship the Acheron. The rest of the film consists either the two ships engaging one another, or the Surprise chasing the Acheron. The substance of the film beyond that consists entirely of the relations between the various members of the crew, with the exception of a trip to the Galapagos Islands, where Maturin, as a naturalist, gets to glimpse the animals that Charles Darwin would make so much of only a couple of decades later on the Beagle. Apart from some TV documentaries, this is the only movie I can ever remember having seen that was actually shot on location in the Galapagos Islands, and it was, moreover, the only parts of the film shot on dry land. Some serious film buffs might turn their noses up at this film, because it doesn't try to do anything but entertain, but it does that so well, that I would suggest that they think about nose jobs.
Rating: 
Summary: mixed bag but much to recommend
Review: ***1/2 The odd thing about "Master and Commander" is that its strengths and its weaknesses both seem to derive from one and the same source: its subtlety. Based on the novels by Patrick O'Brian, "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" is a seafaring adventure tale more notable, perhaps, for its straight-ahead action sequences than for its finer elements of characterization and conflict. O'Brian has certainly given writer John Collee and writer/director Peter Weir plenty to work with here, starting with an Ahab-type main character named Jack Aubrey, a British sea captain in 1805 who becomes obsessed with overtaking and attacking a much larger French man-of-war ship that defeated his vessel in battle off the coast of South America. Aubrey, albeit a man of sensibility and compassion, often endangers the lives of his men in an effort to complete his "mission," even though he is routinely challenged by cooler heads on the ship to acknowledge the fruitlessness of the endeavor and to set sail for home an honorably defeated man. Aubrey is nowhere near as neurotic and delusional as Ahab, and that perhaps is the biggest problem with the film. Aubrey, for all his bluster, is really not all that interesting a character. Although we can see where the filmmakers are trying to take us, they never seem able to crack open Aubrey's mind to help us get inside and learn what really makes him tick. One thing about Ahab is that we always knew why the stakes were so personal for him. With Aubrey we don't really understand why he is so single-mindedly set on getting his target. Perhaps the confrontations he has with his crewmen are just a trifle too low-keyed and underplayed to reveal very much about his character. "Master and Commander" may be a more realistic yarn than "Moby Dick" but, in this case at least, subtlety comes with a hefty price. An adventure film set on the high seas needs to hit more dramatic high points than "Master and Commander" is eventually able to muster. Having said all that, it seems a bit perverse and paradoxical to now point out that "Master and Commander" also draws its greatest strength from the fact that it doesn't rely on cheap melodramatics to achieve its power. Thanks to outstanding direction, set design and special effects, we really feel as if we are on one of those early 19th Century sailing vessels, a feeling that is enhanced even more in the battle scenes which are executed with a stunning eye for believability and detail. And there are many moments of silent intensity particularly between Aubrey and Dr. Stephen Maturin, the ship's surgeon and resident naturalist, obviously modeled on Charles Darwin (though 30 years earlier than Darwin), who can't understand why Aubrey has to go off fighting Bonaparte's forces when all Maturin wants is to be able to go traipsing all over the Galapagos Islands in search of new and fascinating faunal specimens (at least Darwin didn't have to contend with some pesky war when he was off developing his Theory of Evolution). The subtle interplay between these two characters provides for some of the most gripping moments in the film. Russell Crowe manages to convey both authority and compassion in his role of Aubrey, and Paul Bettany creates a compelling foil for him in Maturnin. Aubrey is also up against the superstitious nature of his disgruntled crew who attribute much of their troubled journey to the curse laid upon them by a vindictive god (vide "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner"). The filmmakers also do an effective job exploring the internal decision-making process a person in authority often has to go through in weighing the good of the group against the good of the individual. The fact that Aubrey isn't a raving lunatic (like Ahab) lessens the drama but heightens the verisimilitude of the piece. "Master and Commander" is a bit of a close call for me, but taken as a whole, its virtues ultimately outweigh its flaws.
Rating:
Summary: Best Sailing Film Ever Made
Review: Unlike Pirates of the Caribbean this movie is so firmly rooted in realism that you will feel the sea rock and the wind howl in your ears; you'll taste the rotten food and feel a clutch in your gut during the battle sequences. I have NEVER seen a film dealing with the sea and ships that comes within a mile of this one in terms of quality. It is a momentous achievement of story telling and verisimilitude. Russel Crow has finally EARNED the Academy Award he did not deserve for Gladiator. The books by Patrick O'brien are also highly recommended.
Rating:
Summary: **** 1/2 out of ***** - Excellent
Review: Below decks are dim, crowded, and dirty. When water and cold air chill sailors to the bone, there is nowhere to seek warmth and comfort. The most fascinating happening on the boat, apart from the evening drinking and singing revelries, is the doctor's meticulous attempts to replace part of a man's skull with a coin. Occasionally, an enemy ship will engage in battle; then the thrills and action will be accompanied by blood and fatalities. Welcome aboard the Surprise, a British navy ship during the Napoleonic Wars. Peter Weir (Gallipoli, The Truman Show) gives a grim and realistic picture of early 19th century battles and ship life. Russell Crowe (L.A. Confidential, The Insider) plays "Lucky Jack" Aubrey, captain of the Surprise. After attacked by a greater French ship, the Acheron, Aubrey is determined to find and defeat the "Phantom Boat", as it is at first dubbed. However, Aubrey's determination leads to near obsession as he peruses the Acheron (which is also following him) no matter what the odds are. The sails on the sailing ships are grimy, but still beautiful as they billow in the breeze. The movie itself is gritty but magnificent, and the sets and costumes are all created with exquisite care. Sailors are fairly grubby, the food is unappetizing, and light is faint when lanterns are its only source. The ships themselves are gorgeous, though tiny when compared to the number of men who serve on them. The scenery is absolutely stunning, even though most of the shots involve simply a ship or two surrounding by water, miles and miles of water. There are a few detours to the Galapagos Islands, which are filmed just as breathtakingly as the other scenes. Acting is first rate. Crowe is excellent, of course, as the dogged and resolute Captain Jack Aubrey, popular leader of the Surprise. The surgeon, played by Paul Bettany (Dogville, A Beautiful Mind), is another interesting character. He is an intellectual who questions the accepted British hierarchy and sailor superstitions, and is enthralled by natural science. Other characters include a young boy, Max Pirkis, in his first movie role, and an indecisive midshipman, played by Lee Ingleby. Most characters are not elaborated, but they are all believable and serve for some poignant moments. Dialogue is wonderful, literate, though it could be considered corny at times. The violence can be very grisly, especially in the aftermath of fighting, though the battles themselves are mercifully swift and blurred. Master and Commander is supported by rousing music. Despite its gore and realism, the movie is entertaining and stirring. Highly recommended, though the queasy may cringe at scenes. Fans of sea tales and adventures of any sort should not miss this. Minor Quibble: With the extensive attention to every detail in this movie, I wish they could have made the captain and the doctor look like they were actually playing stringed instruments. Actually, it could have been worse.
Rating:
Summary: M&C
Review: Master and commander captured my eyes and ears in many ways. The talent and skill of the actors was at the utmost best, and the scenory was amazing. Although many people think the storyboard wasn't as interesting as the lord of the rings, I still say that the great acting skills and well shot scenes make up for the plot. Personally, I thought that the plot was unique and creative. The media got a small taste of a different genre of cinematography. Master and Commander, to my point of view, deserves best picture for the year 2003. Good job Russ!
Rating:
Summary: Name Me After Something Prickly, Like a Bush
Review: If you have heard negative criticism of this movie, please don't listen! Clear your mind. Go in with an open mind ready to receive a favorable impression! Why this plea?!?! Well, I waited for months for this movie to release, and I was delighted to see it on it's opening night. I loved the movie, and I loved it even more the 2nd time around. (As with Return of the King, I found the movie so epic & full of action that I needed to watch it more than once to absorb the subtleties of the plot & character development.) However, I was quite depressed when my 20-something year old friends panned the movie & said it was one of the worst ever. If you are brand new to O'Brian & his works, then it may help for you to understand a few things. O'Brian was a tireless historian & naturalist. Every battle battle in his books (not those in the movie, though) were battles that really happened with the 19th century British Navy. All the details of the ship build, the meals eaten, the language, the countries visited, etc. are all true to the times. And, thankfully, the movie has been very faithful to this detail. However, I think my friends were confusing the glimpse we get at this distant culture with their modern day version of life. For instance, in the movie the captain makes a truly shameless pun which WAS said at the time...it shows you the kind of humor the sailors used to get through their tough life. However, my friends took that to be the humor of the movie itself, which is a very different thing. The humor in the script is a very subtle one based on character development & understanding. So, that all said, I think the movie was absolutely fantastic. You have to pay attention some to see where minor characters are developed, where dialogue is important, and where subtle themes are brought through the movie. But, if you do, I don't think you will be disappointed. I think Weir does a masterful job of bringing together great action scenes & fine, tender themes. As for the cast: - Crowe was a flawless Captain Aubrey. He really makes the movie & everything hangs on his performance. You believe in his integrity, his care & his grit.
- Bettany was a very good match as the doctor. He showed both the strength of his personality (a good balance for Aubrey) and also his neurotic weaknesses.
- Boyd (a plug for the LOTR actor) did quite admirably in a very different role for him. Rather than act as the ignorant mischief-maker (Pippen), he is the go-to sailor. He is there at crunch-time & is fully reliable. He seems to have enjoyed this role & filled it well.
- The rest of the crew filled in their places admirably in order for you to be truly absorbed in this tale. And, finally, perhaps one of the most riveting aspects that they captured so well was the ship's delicate constitution - not the boat but the crew. They had to bear tight quarters, extreme weather, sickness, lack of food, battles & traumatic losses - all while staying strong & preparing for the next challenge. I thought this movie did a phenomenal job in showing how the sailors and officers lived & survived emotionally in such a world.
Rating:
Summary: Masterful Movie Making!
Review: Brilliantly realistic treatment of early nineteenth century naval warfare, as a British warship takes on a far superior French ship during the Napoleonic Wars. Russell Crowe is mesmerizing as the British captain, Jack Aubrey. Aubrey's ship doctor and friend, brilliantly played by Paul Bettany (in quite a departure from his role in "A Beautiful Mind"), provides all sorts of dramatic tension you wouldn't expect in a typical high-seas adventure film. But this film is not typical: beyond the basic plot of a high-stakes naval cat-and-mouse game, it is a film about duty-duty to country, to crew, to a friend, to one's self. As Aubrey's mission unfolds, all these various duties come into conflict, and it is in how he resolves them that the true magnificence of his character is revealed. Besides fantastic acting top to bottom, the film features a witty and thoroughly engaging screenplay, accurate set designs down to the last detail, cinematography that captures the feel of the high seas from dead calm to raging storms, charming subplots, and of course...plenty of action.
Rating:
Summary: Aubrey and Maturin on the High Seas
Review: I'm a real devotee of the Aubrey-Maturin series, and although this film does not really take its plot from either of the novels mentioned, it it true to the world of the novels and the friendship between the two main characters. For once, we have a contemporary film that is not cynical and not afraid to have a hero who, while not flawless, is basically good, brave, generous, and genuinely devoted to his country. Watching this film is like breathing in bracing, clean sea air. Bravo!
Rating:
Summary: Bring your rain gear!
Review: This is an excellent movie in the tradition of Stewart Granger, Tyrone Power, Errol Flynn and Robert Taylor. What with all of the extraordinary technology director Peter Weir hurls at us, it would be difficult to subscribe a 50's feel to it. Nevertheless it has that larger than life feel to it not uncommon in some of those earlier "epic" works. Crowe is a larger than life actor, and fits well into the garb of Captain "Lucky" Jack Aubrey, Captain of HMS Surprise. His orders - to shadow and destroy the enormous French warship, the Acheron. Captain Aubrey's friend, Dr. Stephen Maturin, equally well played by Paul Bettany, is a formidable advocate for compassion as Crowe is for leadership. The Surprise steals the show, and 10 minutes after the movie begins we forget we are on the pitching deck of a 200 foot frigate in the South Atlantic. Jolly good show. Makes movie goers want to see more period pieces and book readers read more of Patrick O'Brian. Larry Scantlebury
Rating: 
Summary: Master & Commander is a smooth sail!
Review: Master and Commander is one of the better nautical films to be released in a long time. That is partially due to the fact that there are not many films that take place at sea. It is refreshing to watch a film about naval fleets and the battles they fought on the high sea, without having to add romance or make your prototypical hero characters. Russell Crowe gives a good performance as the commander of the fleet and is very believeable in the role. His character is a man who only knows the sea and only knows victory, and it is a loss at sea that is the premise for the film as his character, Lucky Jack, pursues his enemy at all cost to win. Paul Bettany also fairs well as the doctor on the ship and explorer when Lucky Jack allows the crew to dock on land. The exploring side of this film is its most interesting aspect, as not many films have shown us characters and explorations like this. The two battle scenes are very well staged and executed, as is the rest of the cast, especially the children sailors, who have more responsibility at sea than many adults would ever have in their life. There are some boring spots in this long film, but it is worth the price to see a well done film. Peter Weir is one of the best directors around, and while the film falls short of being great, Weir's direction does not. Crowe and Bettany both put in performances worthy of Oscar talk, but not nominations. This film will have to settle for being a very good film, and that is nothing to apologize for.
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