Death and the Maiden (1994)

 Not as good as many claim
If you have read the play by Ariel Dorfman, I think you will find this movie adpatation to be wanting. Though there are fine performances by Weaver and Kingsley, Polanski connects too many of the dots for the viewer, leaving little doubt as to the credibility (or madness) of the main characters. It was this very ambiguity that made the play so enjoyable, but this is not evident in the DVD. November 30, 2007

 Nice ambiguous ending
I don't think Sigourney Weaver was "underwhelming" in this movie at all. In fact, I thought her performance was subtle and, indeed, mesmerizing.

Other folks have done justice to the plot's description. But one must watch the movie to get a feel for revenge, or at least some answers, that Weaver's character is seeking after years of torture inflicted upon her (especially after seeing her so nervous and jumpy in the beginning of the film).

What I like most about the film, and it's a trademark of Polanski's that draw me to his films, is the ambiguous ending. The "good" doctor wasn't killed, good didn't win out over evil, and the end wasn't tidied up, Hollywood-style, just to make the public feel good. It's not the way life works out.

"Death and the Maiden" is definitely one of the most underrated movies of all time and it's worth the time watching. - Donna Di Giacomo January 25, 2007

 mesmerizing
This is one of Sigourney Weaver's best accomplishments as an actor. Her character has to go through so many emotions at the same time. "Death and the Maiden" is definitly a great thriller. It is a 'Who done it' that willkeep you guessing to the very end. Ben Kingsly also does a wonderful job, is he a villian or not? You positively won't know in this pyschological tale of intrigue and suspense. January 11, 2007

 Weaver magic
Sigourney Weaver is one of my favourite actors (same class as Meryl Streep, Catherine Denueve, Elizabeth Taylor) She never dissapoints. She is a versitile actor and one pays attention. This is a highly dramatic film and not intended for sissies. Heavy stuff that keeps you on the tip of your seat all the time. This is real acting. That touch of Roman Polansky is evident which makes this an excellent dramatic film. Not to be missed. January 10, 2007

 An intense experience
Living in a democrasy it is hard to fathom the incredle cruelty of a dictatorship. This excellent film gives us a glimpse of the horrors.
It is an intense drama, with stellar performances from Weaver and Kingsly. It really keeps you nailed to your seat.
Highly recommended December 4, 2006

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