100% Natalie Portman

HOLLYWOOD Thu July 03, 2008 7:32 AM (100% Natalie-Portman.net) - I knew nothing of this film as I popped it into the DVD player but looking at the synopsis on the rear cover, this wasn't a film I'd normally see. As webmaster of her fan site, I was obligated to relinquish my man-card and forsake several cold beers to attain some screen captures. Watching the Other Boleyn Girl was a chore. None of the characters had any redeeming qualities. It's not a love story nor is it an action flick. Knowing nothing about this film, I wondered what was the point of it all as I watched a bunch of twisted characters scheming, back stabbing and politically maneuvering their way up the status quo. Eric Bana portrayed King Henry as a pathetic and desperate womanizer. Mary Boleyn (Scarlett Johansson) was a meek mistress used and discarded. The other Boleyn girl, Anne Boleyn, (Natalie Portman) was the manipulative wench.

This is not the type of movie you can walk away thinking pleasant thoughts. There were a couple scenes that made me squirm in my seat and nearly choke up my last meal. The only redeeming quality about this film is the acting. Natalie Portman often gets overshadowed in other films such as Ashley Judd in "Where the Heart" Is, Susan Sarandon in "Anywhere but Here" and even the masked man in "V for Vendetta". But in this film, Natalie outshines all others in a big way. I can honestly say I was astounded. I hadn't seen such characterization well done since her earlier works in The Professional and Beautiful Girls. On top of that, her English accent was very convincing.

Eventually, my level of brain power would allow me to determine that this film was somewhat of a documentary of historical events. It would've been nice though, if they threw in a little quirky humor and sexuality like Amadeus (1984) to lighten up the dull yet beautiful English scenery.

** 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Also see the Gallery for The Other Boleyn Girl - Screen Captures