The latest take on Dorian Gray leaves Gemma just a little cold…
Released in September 2009, Ealing StudiosDorianGrayarrived on our cinema screens with more of a whimper than a bang.
For the most part, he and screenwriter Toby Finlay stay faithful to the source.
A more serious flaw is Ben Barnes performance as Dorian.
For the first half of the film, the portrait has more charisma.
But then, its a very tough part to play well.
Dorian is simply more metaphor than character.
Its what makesThe Picture Of Dorian Graysuch a difficult piece to translate to film.
But while Dorians pretty face may stand the test of time, Im not sure this film will.
Same goes for the commentary with Parker and Finlay.
Other than that, points of interest are thin on the ground.
Theres also a costume gallery, and an out-of-place blooper reel featuring Ben Barnes giggling a lot.
Neither brings much to the table.
Much like the film itself then: not bad, could do better.
Film:
Dorian Grayis out now andavailable from the Den Of Geek Store.
Rating:
4 out of 5