The Constant Gardener
Focus Features | Release Date: August 31, 2005
7.0
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 294 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
192
Mixed:
54
Negative:
48
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
jackSep 1, 2005
I just caught this film last night and really enjoyed the premise. The film realy takes you on a ride like no other so far this year. I look forward to seeing do well come Oscar season!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
mpOct 8, 2005
The scene of Fiennes weeping silently when he revisits the Chelsea apt makes up for the flaws. He seems to excel in this existential anguish. I thought the movie worked best in the silent parts when it didn't preach.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LaurenC.Oct 8, 2005
I believe that the movie was slow for a reason. If the film zipped by and crammed all of the conspiracy and tragedy into the usual hour and a half block, it would not have been so suspenseful. You find yourself making assumptions about he I believe that the movie was slow for a reason. If the film zipped by and crammed all of the conspiracy and tragedy into the usual hour and a half block, it would not have been so suspenseful. You find yourself making assumptions about he characters and the actual plot of the movie until the very last minute.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesSep 1, 2005
Loved this film!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DeVonSep 20, 2005
Ralph Feinnes is quiet brilliance. Cinematography-breath taking. Subject matter- so much more worthy than the wasting the millions spent on typical hollywood fare.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MarcK.Sep 30, 2005
As someone else alluded to before, this film was pretty bad until the last half hour or so, when it became interesting and worth watching. An above average film in a horrible movie year, but that doesn't mean it's a great film, As someone else alluded to before, this film was pretty bad until the last half hour or so, when it became interesting and worth watching. An above average film in a horrible movie year, but that doesn't mean it's a great film, because it's not. The politics of the film is definitely for the Michael Moore crowd, but I didn't think it was that excessive. And since I didn't read the book, it would have been nice to know why the movie was called, "The Constant Gardener."… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
martiej.Sep 7, 2005
Excellent thriller that stands out against the vapid thrillers out of Hollywood. "The Constant Gardener" stays with you for a couple of days and makes you think, which is more than most of the thrillers out there accomplish...Fiennes is Excellent thriller that stands out against the vapid thrillers out of Hollywood. "The Constant Gardener" stays with you for a couple of days and makes you think, which is more than most of the thrillers out there accomplish...Fiennes is absolutely excellent. Weisz is fantastic. For the reviewer who found the film "Michael Moore-like," I suggest perusing some medical journals. Huge pharmaceutical companies are out of control and the consequences are heartbreaking. Doctors, academicians, and scientists feel this way, not just firebrands like Tessa.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
Don'tCareSep 9, 2005
Hmm... I guess it was interesting, it was engrossing really. It was weel done, the shots were great, but where's the f'in THRILLER aspect of this film, it doesn't exist. It's not thrilling at all. The story is good, the Hmm... I guess it was interesting, it was engrossing really. It was weel done, the shots were great, but where's the f'in THRILLER aspect of this film, it doesn't exist. It's not thrilling at all. The story is good, the acting is great especially by Fiennes and the movie as a whole is really good. Yet for me, it didn't ever really go anywhere and there was no real pay off at the end. Maybe i'm just being nitpicky but i think there were a few places where they could have earned a 10. Thus i give it an 8, good but definately not worth the buzz.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
Bluezboy8Sep 9, 2005
Mesmerizing work from Meirelles! Fiennes turns in another great performance, as does the supporting cast, especially Huston and Nighy. This sophisticated "thriller" is layered with just the right amount of retrospect to effectively fulfill Mesmerizing work from Meirelles! Fiennes turns in another great performance, as does the supporting cast, especially Huston and Nighy. This sophisticated "thriller" is layered with just the right amount of retrospect to effectively fulfill Tessa's life, but if I were directing, I would only decrease the frenetic handheld sequences by, maybe, half. The tension is already palpable, and the "caffeinated" lenswork serves only to nauseate more than titilate.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DarkmageJan 20, 2006
You may want to enjoy this movie by yourself and not watch it with a date you don't want to disappoint. This movie is quite slow moving in many instances, with a lack of background music at times and British accents thick enough to make You may want to enjoy this movie by yourself and not watch it with a date you don't want to disappoint. This movie is quite slow moving in many instances, with a lack of background music at times and British accents thick enough to make you miss dialogue if you're not accutely paying attention. All these glowing reviews make the movie look amazing -- and it is! -- but it certainly isn't a movie for any occassion.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PaalF.Feb 20, 2006
Excellent plot, excellent lead actors, excellent setting.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JohnV.Feb 7, 2006
The Constant Gardener is not the usual flare with which Hollywood treats Africa. It is not Lord of War, Tears of the Sun, or some other ethnocentric garbage. I think its very much in your face glimpse of what the world is doing in Africa. The Constant Gardener is not the usual flare with which Hollywood treats Africa. It is not Lord of War, Tears of the Sun, or some other ethnocentric garbage. I think its very much in your face glimpse of what the world is doing in Africa. Having just returned from West Africa myself after several months, I feel as though this movie really did try and present Africa in a real sense, with real heart. An excellent film in every sense.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DaveOct 17, 2005
Great film! Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz were superb, probably the best from Fiennes since The English Patient. This proves that Fernando Meirelles is a great director and City Of God was not a fluke. Oh, and for those of you who thought Great film! Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz were superb, probably the best from Fiennes since The English Patient. This proves that Fernando Meirelles is a great director and City Of God was not a fluke. Oh, and for those of you who thought it was boring or slow, while don't you just stick to Vin Diesel movies, or whatever the latest stupid blockbuster hollywood rolls out?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DaveC.Dec 15, 2005
Some of the faux-English mannerisms in the film made me wince (somebody get a British screenwriter) while some of the narrative delineations were more smug than interesting, Rachel Weizs character meanwhile is idealised. That aside however, Some of the faux-English mannerisms in the film made me wince (somebody get a British screenwriter) while some of the narrative delineations were more smug than interesting, Rachel Weizs character meanwhile is idealised. That aside however, I thought this was a timely film which grips you from the very beginning. Pacing, strong performances and skillful direction, these elements combine to make a highly entertaining thriller, so much so that its easy to forgive the lack of dimension to the lead characters and the film's overall fancifulness.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
WelingtonS.Oct 22, 2005
Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles is on the top of the world of cinema industry. He proves with this flick all his talent, originality and social conscience. He took a commercial screenplay and transformed it in a nervous and brethtaking Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles is on the top of the world of cinema industry. He proves with this flick all his talent, originality and social conscience. He took a commercial screenplay and transformed it in a nervous and brethtaking trip through Africa. I had to see it twice in a cinema in São Paulo, Brasil, to get all the informations and characters motivation to immerse into the history. The editing and cinematography are superb, the actors and actress are perfect. Rachell Weizz give the best female performance I saw this year. She shines in every frames. The chemistry between she and Ralph Fiennes rules the movie. Fiennes is also very good. It's a love story, a thriller and a social comment about our world. Unfortunatelly money rules the wold and the government is in their hands (just think in the USA and the war against Iraque, the petrol, the gas, the relation between Bush and the gas corporation. How many had to die for economica profits?). We can imagine that Le Carre and Meirelles are exagerating but if we start think about what is happening maybe they are not. It's an advice to the world: how we (the society, government and corporations) are treating (baddly) the people who lives in poor areas. Remarkable work. Welington Liberato (Sorry for my english)… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
LaDonaG.Dec 31, 2005
Rachel Weisz gives the best performance of all time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MathewD.Dec 3, 2005
This film is brilliant...I saw this movie with one other person, and we were joined by one bystander, sitting 3 rows up, nearly comatose...If you have any political persuasion whatsoever, or appreciate the melding of politics and filmmaking, This film is brilliant...I saw this movie with one other person, and we were joined by one bystander, sitting 3 rows up, nearly comatose...If you have any political persuasion whatsoever, or appreciate the melding of politics and filmmaking, see this movie--you won't regret it. Lovely, moving, painful, and appealing.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DorothyM.Oct 5, 2005
Excellent from start to finish.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MarkB.Sep 10, 2005
Last year's compelling and engrossing (if overextended and overlong) documentary feature The Corporation boiled down the most common characteristics of most global corporations; then, as if the firms were human beings, subjected them to Last year's compelling and engrossing (if overextended and overlong) documentary feature The Corporation boiled down the most common characteristics of most global corporations; then, as if the firms were human beings, subjected them to a battery of psychological tests. The result was that the typical corporation displayed a profoundly psychopathic personality--completely devoid of any sense of ethics, decency, morality or anything else that could possibly (if only slightly) get in the way of record profits and huge bottom lines. Well, if that film was the dictionary definition of a global superfirm, The Constant Gardener could very aptly serve as Figure 1-A. Fernando Meirelles' film of John leCarre's novel is an indictment of the actions of major drug concerns in testing an iffy tuberculosis medicine in Africa without consideration of moral or legal boundaries on any level; you know where the film's going early on when a character wisecracks that drug companies, even though in the business of healing, never do anything strictly out of the goodness of their hearts. The director received great acclaim (and an Oscar nomination) a couple years ago with the impressive but somewhat overrated City of God; the jigsaw-puzzle structuring, busy pictorial sense and jumpy MTV framing and editing style that distracted me rather than drawing me into the drama there is better suited for this movie's thriller material, and the distancing it provides is rather a blessing; knowing that the film involves using innocent people as guinea pigs, perhaps an approach that simmers rather than boils prevents a movie with this subject matter from being utterly unwatchable. You will, however, care very deeply about the two central adults involved in the mystery: Raph Fiennes has never been more engagingly wonky than he is in the role of the perhaps-too-diplomatic Justin, and the talented, underrated Rachel Weisz, again displaying the singular skill at completely concealing the author's secrets that she did in three 2003 films (Confidence, The Shape of Things and Runaway Jury), is wonderfully alive and sympathetic as Fiennes' radical and highly unlikely spouse. Jeffrey Caine's script adheres a little too firmly to certain well-worn thriller conventions near the end (a car chase that seems inorganic, the villain exposing his scheme to the hero in great detail), and unlike its current spiritual opposite, the compact and commercially apolitical suspenser Red Eye, this could've comfortably divested itself of about ten or fifteen minutes. But limitations and all, The Constant Gardener is still a worthy, provocative kickoff to the movies' annual Serious Season and an effective debate starter...although for me, the most thought-provoking image was a closeup near the end of a Bible being used for distinctly unscriptural ends. That shot (almost, but not quite a throwaway) and everything leading up to it, reminded me that, even though I know most Christians to be wonderful, decent, loving people, I probably will never "get" the Religious Right. Many of its number seem to be totally willing to write multinational corporations a legal and ethical blank check to do anything they want to do (doesn't that fall under the category of idolatry or worshipping mammon?) even if it involves murdering the opposition (isn't that what Jesus' foes tried to do to him?) And while it's well and good that they do everything possible to preserve the sanctity of life during pregnancy, the philosophy from the way that African children are regarded and treated in The Constant Gardener seems to be "We'll protect your lives as long as you're in the womb--but once out, you're on your own, kids!"… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
S.LeoneSep 1, 2005
A masterpiece made by a great director and fantastic actors. You must see it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SteveC.Sep 16, 2005
The acting and the story line were excellent -- and the focus on the evils of the large, multi-national drug companies is long overdue. This otherwise excellent film is absolutly ruined by the manic cinemaphotography and editing: it had the The acting and the story line were excellent -- and the focus on the evils of the large, multi-national drug companies is long overdue. This otherwise excellent film is absolutly ruined by the manic cinemaphotography and editing: it had the look and feel of seeing the world through the eyes of a crystal meth addict. All the fine acting was completely upstaged by out-of-focus, jerky, and just plain sloppy camera work that never let the viewer completely relate to the characters or the plot. A pitty!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
dank.Sep 1, 2005
Considering that city of god is also a favorite, it shouldnt be a surprise that my anticipation level for this one was through the roof. i was worried that i was setting myself up for a huge disappointment and was doubly ecstatic to find out Considering that city of god is also a favorite, it shouldnt be a surprise that my anticipation level for this one was through the roof. i was worried that i was setting myself up for a huge disappointment and was doubly ecstatic to find out that was not going to be the case! ralph and rachel have real chemistry and you really believe his story and progression of character. on top of that, the pharma controversy IS something that can happen - it did 4 years ago. if you want to go see something intelligent this weekend, this should be on the top of your list.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PeterSep 2, 2005
Wonderful movie, rachel was fantastic so as ralph.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BrianG.Sep 3, 2005
Has anyone made 2 movies in a row as consistanly brilliant as Meirelles? As great as Fiennes performance is, Meirelles is the star. The movie's composition is sublime. For a thriller, the complete storyline is completely believable. Not Has anyone made 2 movies in a row as consistanly brilliant as Meirelles? As great as Fiennes performance is, Meirelles is the star. The movie's composition is sublime. For a thriller, the complete storyline is completely believable. Not once did I say to myself, "Come on, no way would that happen." I can't believe I will see a better movie this year.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
GregS.Sep 5, 2005
Excellent movie; very strong performances. In my opinion, it deserves Oscar nominations for best actor, actress, and possibly supporting actor (Bill Nighy). It will almost certainly be nominated for cinematography. The movie's hook is Excellent movie; very strong performances. In my opinion, it deserves Oscar nominations for best actor, actress, and possibly supporting actor (Bill Nighy). It will almost certainly be nominated for cinematography. The movie's hook is that it creates two stories out of one plot; there's a conspiracy thriller with a powerful, liberal message, and, more memorably, a "retrospective romance", in which Quayle "learns" Tessa all over again, after her death. Advice before viewing: there is no stereotypical action movie baggage (gunplay, explosions, etc.); the few action scenes are played very low key. Don't go in waiting for that, even in the climax.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BJS.Jan 22, 2006
Very thought provoking but a little slow. Iwould not mention it as an oscar.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SalmanH.Feb 8, 2006
Incredible. just watched it on DVD. film was so moving. but it is for mature audiences. not the type of movie u wanna watch with all ur friends on saturday nite stay etc.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JonS.Jul 10, 2006
Pay no attention to those whose beef is with the film's politics. This is a masterpiece of filmmaking: personal, abstract, technicially marvelous, with an amazing story and as much suspense as one could ask for. Yes, the movie is hugely Pay no attention to those whose beef is with the film's politics. This is a masterpiece of filmmaking: personal, abstract, technicially marvelous, with an amazing story and as much suspense as one could ask for. Yes, the movie is hugely critical of some pharmaceutical company practices, but it never asserts this is what all companies do. Most impressively, the movie ties together a man's journey to know his wife into a journey to understand the world. Truly beautiful. Those that dislike the humane, intelligent, passionate politics of this film . . . well, they're part of the problem.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JoeC.Jul 16, 2006
Great movie. Works as a thriller, romance and drama. Great performances by Fiennes and Weisz and Meirelles is proving himself as a master of filmmaking!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MennoV.Dec 4, 2007
Impressive movie, though a bit slow to start. Excellent casting, very good camerawork. It's been a while a movie sucked me in this deep!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LoildoT.Feb 2, 2007
Great Movie, unquestionably! But, of course, this kind of movie requires maturity and patience, as for most interesting things.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AlexPNov 23, 2005
Can't believe I saw the same film as those rating 0. Beautiful in every way - script, cinematography, acting. Why can't a film be a romance, a travellogue, a political drama & a conspiracy theorist simultaneously? If you want Can't believe I saw the same film as those rating 0. Beautiful in every way - script, cinematography, acting. Why can't a film be a romance, a travellogue, a political drama & a conspiracy theorist simultaneously? If you want single genre films then don't see this one. I can't remember the last film that tried to be many different things & succeeded so well. Anyone who believes that drug companies are solely motivated by altruism should probably get out more. Or read medical journals. Or investigative journalism. Or use Google. If you can't admire the subtlety then maybe Michael Moore is more your thing. The expression on Fiennes' face on being told of his wife's death is worth one of those little golden statues alone. A defining moment in English reserve. Also refreshing to see a film bereft of Americans for those of us not from the US. Can't recommend it highly enough. If you're expecting car chases & gun fights & believe drug companies 'just want to make people better' then probably best not to go see this film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
TomG.Nov 27, 2005
This is a great film. If this film doesn't win an Oscar in any number of categories they should never give the award out again. They should make more LeCarre novels into books.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JakMNov 20, 2005
Brilliant direction and cinematography make for a beautiful and moving film. You can see that director Fernando Meirelles and cinematographor Cesar Charlone lovingly thought about every single shot. The depiction of Africa was realistic, Brilliant direction and cinematography make for a beautiful and moving film. You can see that director Fernando Meirelles and cinematographor Cesar Charlone lovingly thought about every single shot. The depiction of Africa was realistic, with several scenes including the raid by the Janjaweed, hitting this home. Great acting by the two leads made you give a damn about them. The best film I have seen all year.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
Rev.RikardOct 13, 2005
Most films provide us with a fleeting escape from reality, or reveal a mirror into which we see reflections of the self. This film offers that rare window through which we gaze upon a world that is startling and worrisome. It is a world to Most films provide us with a fleeting escape from reality, or reveal a mirror into which we see reflections of the self. This film offers that rare window through which we gaze upon a world that is startling and worrisome. It is a world to which we are intimately connected, yet we are unaware of its existence. It is a world from which we are emotionaly disconnected because of the personal contentment within the secure, insulated worlds of our making. Director Mierelles succeeds in giving us that window. He employs "contrast" to keep us in suspence. However, suspence here is used honestly. It is not tossed in to make a film about a serious issue profitable. The suspence arises from the issue itself and the contradictions and contrasts that live within that issue. The viewer witnesses commited love and jealous suspicion; politics as career versus politics as an obstacle to change. We watch individuals deeply concerned about themselves, as the poor are treated like laboratory mice. Perhaps the most potent contrast is the beauty of ultimate commitment to truth for compassion's sake against "altered and adjusted truth" for financial profit. The acting is outstanding and the story is mesmerizing. As we gaze through Mierelles' window, the film dares us to sacrifice our desensitizing manner of living that we might rediscover the power of compassion, and finally capture that ellusive experience in life called "purpose."… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
C.B.BrowneOct 18, 2005
Beautifully shot & compelling from beginning to end. Dissenters must be tied to the pharmaceutical industry.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
bertl.Dec 18, 2005
One of the best movies i've seen.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AliM.Dec 24, 2005
Outstanding .... A serious contender for BEST PICTURE WINNER at the oscars this year. Well done to both Rachel Weisz and Ralph fiennes for delivering an ASTONISHING performance !!! A must-see!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CyB.Oct 23, 2005
For those who thought the filme is boring, I may tell u that maybe your brain is a little slow. For those who thought it's sensacionalism, go to Africa, and find yourself. The movie? Excellent is not a word for it. It's For those who thought the filme is boring, I may tell u that maybe your brain is a little slow. For those who thought it's sensacionalism, go to Africa, and find yourself. The movie? Excellent is not a word for it. It's overwhelming. It may let you thinking how worst it could become or how can you keep sat an do nothing while all of it is hapenning? But, you will only think about it if u have at least a little sense of humanity. If you haven't, so u may say the movie is preposterous.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
WallyS.Dec 6, 2005
One of the best movies of the year. Gripping, absorbing and extremely intelligente. A love story that runs away from stereotipes, and convinces the audience with sheer wit and deep suspense.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RFOct 3, 2005
Great photography, too bad the story went very slow towards the end. I think it's a direction mistake. i didn't expect this from the director of city of god.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PrudenceK.Oct 4, 2005
Rachel Weisz is absolutely brilliant. She is totally amazing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RobertAug 26, 2005
Wonderful!!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
katherineb.Sep 1, 2005
Having read the book I was pleasantly surprised to find the movie kept the thrust of the social statement. The acting was excellent and both Fiennes and Weisz made Justin and Tessa more vivid almost than the book - which was excellent. The Having read the book I was pleasantly surprised to find the movie kept the thrust of the social statement. The acting was excellent and both Fiennes and Weisz made Justin and Tessa more vivid almost than the book - which was excellent. The scenes in Nairobi were startling and the use of filters for the various scenes, esp. in Britain, was most effective. Music was great.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
KenG.Sep 11, 2005
Intelligent thriller, which was well acted and also works as a poignant love story, thanks largely to genuine chemistry between Fiennes, and Weiss. It is also nice to see that this movie understands that a thriller doesn't have to have Intelligent thriller, which was well acted and also works as a poignant love story, thanks largely to genuine chemistry between Fiennes, and Weiss. It is also nice to see that this movie understands that a thriller doesn't have to have large body counts, or characters whose only point in being in the movie is to be knocked off. I hope Hollywood is taking notes, but I doubt it. However, this movie blows its ending (alot of movies this year have done that) for 2 reasons. First of all it is overly vague, (and takes on an artsy-pretentious feel) even allowing for the fact that not everything has to be spoon-fed to us. Secondly, it feels phony. Fiennes makes a decision that it doesn't feel believeable he would make at that moment. Maybe later on he would make a similiar decision, but at that time he would want to see things through and make sure things worked out the right way, and not trust it to fate and a stranger, when things could still go wrong. Overall I enjoyed the movie, but because of the ending I did work out with an unfulfilled feel.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DavidD.Sep 12, 2005
With the exception of one very short period, this movie kept me involved from start to finish. Extremely well acted by all.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DanB.Sep 13, 2005
The thing about "intelligent thrillers" is that they're often more intelligent than thrilling. And when they are then not as intelligent as they might think they are, then... regardless, good acting, looks lovely, good story... but a The thing about "intelligent thrillers" is that they're often more intelligent than thrilling. And when they are then not as intelligent as they might think they are, then... regardless, good acting, looks lovely, good story... but a bit slow for a purported thriller, and its political message is weakened simply because it's so one sided. It could be perfectly correct and true and I would be skeptical, because it's so one-sided.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AndyB.Sep 13, 2005
Fiennes character was one of the most interesting that I have seen in a very long time. I was never caught up in suspense or intrigue with what would happen next, but rather with what "he" would do next. He was an exagerrated nice guy, never Fiennes character was one of the most interesting that I have seen in a very long time. I was never caught up in suspense or intrigue with what would happen next, but rather with what "he" would do next. He was an exagerrated nice guy, never ruffling feathers, no judgement and no interference in others' affairs. I thought this movie was more about his path toward taking a stand for something. The story itself was pretty interesting and Weisz was amazing as usual.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SteveSep 17, 2005
Brilliant picture!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JulieSep 17, 2005
Mesmerizing
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
EduardoC.Sep 18, 2005
Intelligent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KrisS.Sep 19, 2005
This movie is real. Between the simpel plot is a mosaic of beautiful camera-work and splendid editing. It's an intense african experience.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ElmoL.Sep 19, 2005
Fabulously directed, mesmerizing cinematography, tight performances. One of the best films to come out in years.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SusanD.Sep 19, 2005
Best movie thus far of the decade.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ScottS.Sep 26, 2005
Enjoy the images, the superb storytelling and the acting. Since this film aims for mature audiences, you'll also enjoy sitting in a theatre NOT over-ran by 14 year-old boys and girls.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DaveF.Sep 28, 2005
Ralph Fiennes can convey more emotion with a squint and a funny half-smile than most actors can using all of their tools. He and Rachel Weisz are terrific. The story gets a bit convokuted, but you have to love the "bad guys" comeuppance.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JennySep 29, 2005
Excellent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AaronSep 3, 2005
An excellent film. With this movie, Meirelles proves that 'City of God' was no fluke. He has fashioned a passionate, provocative, thoroughly engrossing adaptation out of Le Carre's novel. Fiennes and Weisz are terrific, I hope An excellent film. With this movie, Meirelles proves that 'City of God' was no fluke. He has fashioned a passionate, provocative, thoroughly engrossing adaptation out of Le Carre's novel. Fiennes and Weisz are terrific, I hope they are remembered come Oscar time. The visual style and editing in this film are amazing. Unless you have read the novek, go into this film cold, you will appreciate it more. Definitely one of the best films of 2005!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
KeithSep 3, 2005
A good, but not great film. Excellent performances by Fiennes and Weisz, but the plot was difficult to follow and the camera action jarring at times. This was a movie that critics will love more than a general audience.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DanaM.Sep 5, 2005
Excellent entertainment with wonderful cimematography. Dialog difficult to follow when action picks up. Ending a disappointment after such a buildup. But overall defintely worth seeing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ChadS.Sep 5, 2005
Since Justin's jealousy over Tessa's secret life is what transforms the thriller/suspense elements in "The Constant Gardner" from being the stuff of mere escapist entertainment into a story we take seriously, keeping Ralph Fiennes Since Justin's jealousy over Tessa's secret life is what transforms the thriller/suspense elements in "The Constant Gardner" from being the stuff of mere escapist entertainment into a story we take seriously, keeping Ralph Fiennes tortured to the very last frame would've helped this very good film be a great one. Tell us, but don't tell Justin. Rachel Weisz does a wonderful job of channeling Kate Winslet in this career-changing performance. She might've made "Beyond Borders" watchable.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JonathanB.Jan 12, 2006
Very great, and good.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
TimK.Feb 16, 2006
Gripping, suspenseful, nuanced, real. Another fabulous Ralph Fiennes movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ANApr 28, 2006
I disagree with all of you. It is a moving romance sorty, involiving some of the best actors. It presents the terrible side of politics, hiding everything from the public. It shows how badly the poor Africans are treated. It is magnificent, I disagree with all of you. It is a moving romance sorty, involiving some of the best actors. It presents the terrible side of politics, hiding everything from the public. It shows how badly the poor Africans are treated. It is magnificent, beautifully filmed. Exactly what it should be.… Expand
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8
JudithH.Feb 25, 2007
A good, rather than a great film, but I'm surprised few people have mentioned the novel. There were some strange decisions made in the adaptation, such as NOT including Lara, the beautiful Russian scientist. And now I've typed that A good, rather than a great film, but I'm surprised few people have mentioned the novel. There were some strange decisions made in the adaptation, such as NOT including Lara, the beautiful Russian scientist. And now I've typed that I can see why not - it sounds too James Bond.… Expand
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7
MarileeB.Nov 2, 2005
So earnest... so predictable, as most films about Africa are when made by caucasions. We must see the venal bad Africans undermine the earnest white aid workers... and their few saintly African helpers. I would have given it a lower score, So earnest... so predictable, as most films about Africa are when made by caucasions. We must see the venal bad Africans undermine the earnest white aid workers... and their few saintly African helpers. I would have given it a lower score, but the acting was good. Weisz and Fiennes were good, but their mannered performances were exceeded by the always excellent Pete Postlethwaite in a small but pivotal supporting role. He gave great natural complexity to his character.… Expand
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7
PaulHNov 22, 2005

It took a while for me to get into it, but eventually it won me over, mostley due to the wonderful performance by Fiennes.
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9
NigelP.Nov 28, 2005
An excellent portrail of the West's exploitation of Africa. Superb acting, brilliant scenery and great plot. Was hooked all the way through, and would thoroughly recommend this film to anyone.
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9
RichardJ.Nov 29, 2005
Beautifully shot film of a superb Carre novel. Fiennes' acting was (as usual) very good, but he was supported by a great crowd of other actors. Well worth seeing.
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10
robertd.Oct 28, 2005
Stunning backdrop for a nasty tale.
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10
PaulA.Sep 12, 2005
Simply a great film...truly what filmmaking should be about: commenting on the human condition while entertaining.
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10
JackM.Sep 18, 2005
A fabulous, beautiful film which never shrinks from telling difficult truths. An absolute masterpiece -- don't miss it!
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10
WayneW.Sep 19, 2005
Hands down, the best film I've seen in 2005. Finally, something worth seeing in the theater. This movie is so rich and detailed I'm going to see it a second time, and it will be a must-own when it comes out on DVD. Jeffrey Hands down, the best film I've seen in 2005. Finally, something worth seeing in the theater. This movie is so rich and detailed I'm going to see it a second time, and it will be a must-own when it comes out on DVD. Jeffrey Caine's screenplay is positively terrific, and Fernando Meirelles's direction is fantastic. Top-notch performances from Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz. Don't miss it!… Expand
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10
DaveH.Sep 19, 2005
Astounding and breathtaking and terrifying. I was holding my breath through some scenes because it was so intense. It's even better than the last film Fernando Meirelles directed, "City of God." Ralph Fiennes is in top form.
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10
WilbertW.Sep 22, 2005
Thoughtful, subtle and provacative. A pleasure to contemplate this intelligent and cynical film.
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10
GinaA.Sep 24, 2005
Absolutely fantastic. A beautiful, complex film that blooms with skillful directing, innovative editing, and sterling performances. One of the best movies I've seen in years.
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9
AnnC.Sep 28, 2005
One of the best films I've seen in a while.
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10
SandeepK.Jan 14, 2006
This movie is to remain my personal favorite for a long time to come. Deftly made with its heart in the right place, the film awakens the ignorant and apathetic mind to a harsh, bitter sweet reality. The plight of Africa is again underscored This movie is to remain my personal favorite for a long time to come. Deftly made with its heart in the right place, the film awakens the ignorant and apathetic mind to a harsh, bitter sweet reality. The plight of Africa is again underscored in this work, although I feel that it would take more than mainstream movies to expand the narrow horizons of the common man steeped in the tar of consumerism. Media is definitely the way to go though.… Expand
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9
DanS.May 26, 2007
John Le Carre was by far my favorite narrator of how the Cold War corroded the humanity of everyone involved. The screen adaptations of his novels of those times, starting with the brilliant "Spy Who Came In From The Cold", showed clearly John Le Carre was by far my favorite narrator of how the Cold War corroded the humanity of everyone involved. The screen adaptations of his novels of those times, starting with the brilliant "Spy Who Came In From The Cold", showed clearly how most involved lost their idealism along the way...if they ever had any. They also explored so well about why and how decent people betray friendships and even love. "The Constant Gardener" tells us how far a huge pharmaceutical company will go to make more profits and, in any case, to cover up unethical, illegal practises when they go wrong. It has similar themes to Le Carre's earlier tales. The film was especially well-acted, with Fiennes and Weisz at their finest, while the cinematography and intelligent dialogue added a lot. Yet, I'm not surprised that the viewers gave this an average score of only 6.7, lower than the 82 by the critics. The basic premise of the tale is that the large pharmas will go so far as to murder those who are attempting reveal the cover-up. "Big pharma" these days have few fans outside Bush's White House, but it's really hard to imagine that they are up to assassinating those they fear. That's really seems to go too far. Yet, I can't bring myself to give this one a score of less than 9. Maybe it's because of Rachel Weisz, my nominee for the thinking man's heart throb. Maybe, like Le Carre, I'm just a sentimental old lefty. So I just can't help myself: "Honi soit qui mal y pense" (Evil to him who evil thinks.)… Expand
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9
MikeW.Dec 11, 2005
Incredibly somber, real, and featuring a brilliant performance by Ralph Fiennes, The Constant Gardener is the best film of the year.
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8
SpangleJun 5, 2014
"The Constant Gardener" is a slow burning political thriller that is a little confusing in the first half, but as more and more gets revealed in the second half, things begin to make a lot more sense and the puzzle pieces really begin to come"The Constant Gardener" is a slow burning political thriller that is a little confusing in the first half, but as more and more gets revealed in the second half, things begin to make a lot more sense and the puzzle pieces really begin to come together. Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz are both great in this one, as expected. It is not hard to believe that Weisz won an Oscar for her performance here. The cinematography is also gorgeous as they were able to extract every bit of beauty they could out of their African location. As mentioned, this one is a tad slow, but it never really failed to have my attention. Throughout the film, I was completely hooked as I tried to follow every twist and turn before the big conclusion at the end. The great part about this one is that the second half really does explain much of what we see in the first half. It is a tad confusing, but the answers to any questions we have are ultimately provided and things begin to make a bit more sense. In addition, the film brings a lot of ethical concerns surrounding drug companies and their operations in Africa to the forefront, as you know the plot of this one is not too far-fetched. While the film was very thrilling, it also makes you feel a lot of empathy for those who are exploited in the name of medicine. Ultimately, "The Constant Gardener" is a good film with a strong plot, strong acting, and strong direction.… Expand
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8
worleyjamersJun 7, 2013
The great political thriller of 2005. Rachel Wiesz is fantastic in her Oscar winning performance, she is excellent here. Great script and good editing. Well-done drama, one of the best of 2005. Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, The ConstantThe great political thriller of 2005. Rachel Wiesz is fantastic in her Oscar winning performance, she is excellent here. Great script and good editing. Well-done drama, one of the best of 2005. Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, The Constant Gardener is a must see.… Expand
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9
alejandro970Sep 18, 2021
Although it is based on a novel, the film leaves the idea of whether it was inspired by real events. Something to be thankful for is how it combines elements of romantic story with suspense and conspiracy. That without forgetting the work ofAlthough it is based on a novel, the film leaves the idea of whether it was inspired by real events. Something to be thankful for is how it combines elements of romantic story with suspense and conspiracy. That without forgetting the work of the cast.… Expand
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7
FilipeNetoAug 23, 2018
When I watched this movie I already had some expectations because I had read good reviews and I knew that it had a strong cast. The story also seemed to be very interesting: a British diplomat trying to discover his wife's murderers discoversWhen I watched this movie I already had some expectations because I had read good reviews and I knew that it had a strong cast. The story also seemed to be very interesting: a British diplomat trying to discover his wife's murderers discovers a corrupt plot between the British government and the pharmaceutical industry, working in Kenya. Needless to say, I think, I was very pleased with the movie. The plot's main subject is strong, moving and human. Actor's work is very competent. The two central characters are affectionate, romantic and passionate, especially Tessa, who defends her ideas with great conviction. This helps a lot to make them dear to the audience, holding our attention until the end. How much of this is pure fiction is something I kept thinking about later. We know that the pharmaceutical industry generates millions, and this causes me (at least to me) some distrust. Has it ever happened, in recent past, something like what happens in this movie? Is it happening now and we don't know? Even if its not, its always a good reason to think on how some countries and regions are exploited. Going back to the film itself, I liked the way it visually explores African landscapes, with cinematography toasting us with scenes of a very beautiful light and color. The work of Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles (in my opinion, the best Brazilian film director today) is very competent and gives the film a soft aroma of documentary that tastes good, even though its no more than an illusion. Errors or problems? I didn't feel many, but I think it would improve if it had been kept for longer the mystery surrounding the conspiracy. The public soon realizes what's going on and the real reasons behind Tessa's death, and that takes away the interest and logic of her husband's demand.… Expand
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