Stardust


Stardust is based on the 'completely unkown to me' novel of the same name by author Neil Gaiman. The movie, directed by Matthew "Layer Cake" Vaughn, stars a cavalry of brilliant actors (Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Peter O'Toole, David Kelly etc.) that delivers in spades.

I won't spoil the story for you, but I can tell you that it's mostly a fantasy, mixed with great humour. I can't think of any other film in this genre. Narnia was too kiddy compared to this - and not as funny, actually. I haven't seen Lord Of The Rings, but I don't think it compares to that epic trilogy either. Stardust can be called 'completely original', I guess. IMDB does list both Narnia and Lord Of The Rings as recommendations, but I don't agree.

Let's be blunt : the movies is truly great. Excellent. Tops. Shizzle. The bomb, while not being a bomb.

Robert De Niro is, without argue, one of the greatest living actors. However, he always fails in funny parts (Analyze This & That, Showtime ...), with Meet The Parents being a rare exception to the rule. In Stardust, he steals the show with a dance routine and very likeable character traits.

The completely new to me Charlie Cox has the difficult task to carry the movie as the main protagonist. Well done, Cox!

I'll be short about leading lady Claire Danes. Miss Danes, will you marry me?

Super performances from the supporting cast as well : Peter O'Toole (talk about legendary! Lawrence Of Arabia!), David Kelly (O'Reilly from Fawlty Towers! Grandpa Joe from Charlie and the chocolate factory!), Dexter Fletcher (from the acclaimed BBC series Hotel Babylon) as one of De Niro's pirates ... quality casting, me says. Oh, and let's not forget 'the seven brothers' : hilarious!

Perfect story, music, cast and a tear to my eye near the end : I can't really ask for more.

Stardust is currently the best film of 2007 to me. A very big thumbs up to the unknown labourers that worked behind the scenes (does anyone EVER think of them?), the director and everybody involved in this superior piece of pellicule. I have already ordered the HD DVD.

Don't you dare miss it!



Julian De Backer, 18 November 2007