The River King (3 out of 4)
Starring Edward Burns and Thomas Gibson. Directed by Nick Willing.
By Angela Baldassarre
Originally Published: 2005-10-23
Alice Hoffman's renowned novel The River King gets a dull and unconvincing filmic rendition in Nick Willing's film of the same name. Though the atmospherics are wonderful, and the performances interesting, the pic's resolution is cold and distant, allowing the viewer to feel uninvolved and alienated.
Beautifully shot in Nova Scotia, The River King is centered in an unknown northeastern town which houses the exclusive Haddan School. One day the body of August Pierce (Thomas Gibson), a Haddan freshman, is found dead in the river. Town policeman Abel Grey (Edward Burns) believes there's been foul play, but his partner (John Kapelos), the police chief and school officials want him to back off the investigation and deem the matter a suicide. Not willing to be bribed, Grey questions Pierce's friend (Rachelle Lefevre) and teachers, including lovely Betsy (Jennifer Ehle) with whom he eventually has a predictable affair. What he uncovers is a disturbing truth that forces Grey to face a dark secret from his past.
The River King is too ambiguous and disconnected to create any real tension or interest. The red herrings are dangled constantly, and though the ending is clever indeed, it really doesn't make matters any more endearing.
Somewhat chilly and cool, and not particularly pleasant.
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