Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Rating:
***1/2

By Da’Mon Guy

     Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time  is good enjoyment for the entire family. It’s full of action, suspense, and is a visual masterpiece. It is the latest film in the tradition of Pirates of the Carribean. It is loosely based upon a series of video games by the same name. Jake Gyllenhaal (Brothers, Jarhead), Gemma Arterton (Clash of the Titans, The Disappearance of Alice Creed), headline the movie with Ben Kingsley (Gandhi, House of Sand and Fog), and Alfred Molina (Spiderman 2, Frida) round out the cast in this visual spectacle.

     Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Dustan, a former orphan, that is rescued from the streets by the King of Persia. The King was impressed by Dustan courage when he saved another child from harm at a street bazaar in Persia that he spared Dustan’s life and adopted him as one of his own children. The story then advances some 15 yrs and Dustan and his two brother are now adults, they are on a quest to conquer a neighboring kingdom. The kingdom of Alamut belongs to Princess Tamina. The princess is the guardian of the secret Dagger of Time which can change time and the fates. Dustan‘s fate becomes intertwined with the dagger‘s as his adventure begins

     Jake Gyllenhaal does an excellent job as the rags to riches hero. He executes a remarkable job of bringing the spirit and the style of the video game to life. The stunts and done well and the acting is commendable. Gemma Arterton also does a good job as the feisty princess. The romance between Gyllenhaal and Arterton is believable and entertaining. The have definite chemistry as they compliment each other well on screen. Ben Kingsley does an admirable job as the treacherous uncle Nazim. He truly makes you want to hate him as every good villain does. Alfred Molina makes a good cameo as a shady but good hearted ostrich racer.
     　
      Prince of Persia has a very compelling storyline with a message deeply seeded within it. The story‘s main theme is the importance of family especially brotherhood. The central focus of the film is the bond between Dustan and his brothers. It showcases their differences but it also demonstrates how in spite of their differences that the bond among brothers is the greatest treasure and the real strength of the kingdom. It also tells how that you don’t have to born into a family to become a family. A very important message that is very universal.

     The cinematography is very well done. It is one of the best parts of Prince of Persia. The landscape scenes are bold and well shot. They camera really draws you into the land of Persia, you almost feel as though you are right there. The stunts are also well done. As Dustan jumps then flips around you feel as though you are right in the middle of the action.
    
      Prince of Persia  will keep the entire family entertained. Everyone from the youngest to the oldest will enjoy this movie. It contains a lot of action as well as a good message embedded within the story. The visuals and stunts will keep you cheering. It’s another hit for Disney!