Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Inspired by the video game, Disney's new movie "The Prince of Persia" is set in a time when the Persian Empire is at the peak of power. The story opens with the king witnessing such amazing courage in a young orphan boy in the marketplace that he decides to adopt the urchin into his own family, which already includes two sons.
Years later, the three princes of Persia are on a military assignment for their father but are sidetracked by accusations that those in a sacred city are providing weapons to the enemies of the Empire.
There is a decision to be made and Tus, the eldest prince -- played by Richard Coyle -- councils with his two brothers, Garsiv and Dastan -- played by Toby Kebell and Jake Gyllenhaal. Dastan, the adopted brother, votes to not attack; Garsiv disagrees. Finally the boys turn to their uncle, Nizam -- played by Ben Kinglsey -- who supports an attack.
The battle is successful, but once inside things seem to be going awry. The beautiful princess -- played by Gemma Arterton -- is fixated on protecting an artifact, a mysterious knife that seems to have incredible power.
Here, this film simply spins out. I would suggest a blank playbook and scorecard so you can try to keep track of the plotlines, the players, their motivations, the legends and lore, the good guys and bad guys and, well, the fun but bizarre comic relief that comes from Alfred Molina and his band of tax protestors and conspiracy theorists.
Now, there are some fun moments and a few of the performances are intriguing, but once again I have to remind myself that there are occasions when Ben Kingsley actually can deliver a compelling character, and this isn't one of them. Top heavy with special effects, "The Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" sadly misses the mark.
Only 2 ½ stars for "The Prince of Persia" and it is rated PG-13.
