The Saint (1997)

Tainted, not Sainted

Saints preserve us! Why, oh why, did they decide to butcher The Saint? The original series based on Charteris' novels and acted by a suave, debonair and above all _competent_ Roger Moore was highly enjoyable, and left us curious to see Simon Templar's most recent incarnation. You know what they say about curiosity...

Val Kilmer gives us a two-dimensional sociopath whose squinty-eyed attempts at acting leave one wishing the authorities would see through his flimsy "disguises" and lock him away to spare us the rest of this movie. The romance is cheesy, the "haunting past" borders on the absurd, the "evil Russian Mafia conspiracy" is painfully stereotypical, the script sounds like a bargain-bin reject, the plot holes are big enough to drive a truck through, the action sequences are the interminable "everyone is a superhero" variety that has become so pervasive - and at a 112-minute running time, it all plays out at excruciating length. The film could almost work as satire if it didn't take itself with such stilted seriousness.

It could have been just another forgettable generic action movie, but to attach it to a distinctive franchise and then give it NO resemblance to the original does nobody any favours. So if you like The Saint as a character or a series, do yourself one: Pass this movie by. July 1, 2008

With Gas Prices Rising, I Hope The Saint Will Steal Us The Formula For Cold Fusion

"The Saint" is my type of movie. It is the perfect blend of action adventure, science fiction, and romance. Excellent performances are given by Val Kilmer as the international thief and Elizabeth Shue as the reclusive scientist. He is trying to steal her formula for cold fusion. Together, Kilmer and Shue sizzle. Their kisses are hot and passionate. There is plenty of suspense and intrigue as they are pursued by Russian henchmen. Beautiful London and Moscow scenery and a rocking soundtrack enhance the chases.

Val Kilmer delivers his best performance as the Saint and proves that he can hold a movie on his own. I was quite impressed with his ability to disguise his appearance and voice and pretend to be so many diverse personalities.

As gas prices continue to soar, I wish cold fusion was a reality. The implications of "The Saint" are frightening. Will the United States run out of heating fuel during the winter as Moscow does in "The Saint?" One can only hope that there will be someone like the Saint to steal us the formula for cold fusion.

If you like romantic adventure, then you must buy "The Saint" for your collection. The Saint will steal your secrets and your heart.
June 3, 2008

The ulitmate date movie.....

"The Saint" starring Val Kilmer, is perhaps Hollywood's best effort yet to produce an action film that is of interest to someone other than just 16 year old males. The story is witty and engaging with plenty of twists and turns to keep the viewer interest. The great disguises that were created for Val Kilmer's character and his techno gagetry add to the films "bond-esque" feel, while the romance with Elizabeth Shue's character is both engaging and central to the story, rather than an "eye candy" afterthought. It is the perfect date movie - something for both, car chases, suspense, things blowing up, and romance, humor and witty dialogue! Plus the movie features a KILLER soundtrack that both adds to the film and is a good listen on it's own. March 28, 2008

The Saint

I did see the original series, but still really liked this movie. Val Kilmer made a great Simon Templar! I thought his multiple personalities embodied in his disguises were well done. The accents, languages, and mannerisms were also what were expected of him. There was a nice balance of romance and suspense, which is what made this highly enjoyable.
March 19, 2008

Super Thief on the edge of Retirement

Val Kilmer does an awesome job as a super Thief that has lots of looks and tricks up his sleave. Hired by a corrupt Russian businessman to steal a formula to Cold Fussion for a British scientest whom he not only makes a connection with but eventually falls in love with. The originally play a little cat and mouse and join sides to fight the corrupt Russian. In the end he gives it up for her love.

A really good and clean movie that will pull you into the story. One for the library. December 31, 2007

More reviews at Amazon.com ...