Master and Commander Movie Review

Master and Commander is my absolute favorite movie of all time. Being an aspiring Patrick O'Brian fan, perhaps that is the reason for my obsession, but when I first saw the movie I had no idea that the series existed. I enjoyed the movie when I originally saw it despite not knowing too much about the time period and not knowing about the books altogether.

Though it was a little confusing (My thoughts were "Uh, what's a mizzen topgallant?") at first, I soon fell into the plot and watched eagerly as the fast-paced action unfolded. Many people claim that the violin and cello playing in the middle was boring, but it just shows that they don’t appreciate good music, only violence. (Poor them)

Not that the action was bad! On the contrary, I consider it very historically correct and the weaponry was made to a degree of accuracy that can be compared only to the handmade arsenal in Lord of the Rings. I really got caught up in the battle scenes, and I replay it over and over. Overall, the plot, filming, and general feeling of companionship made one great movie. I love the music too, (I can play it on my own violin) and the soundtrack is very nice indeed.

The characters really made the movie, though. Russell Crowe was an amazing Jack Aubrey, and when I read the books now, I picture Jack as he was portrayed in the movie. In my opinion, Maturin was displayed as a more open character than I pictured him, but he put up such a great performance that I barely noticed. The two lieutenants (Tom Pullings and William Mowett) had great actors playing them, and that made them really seem like best friends. Definitely see this movie, and read the books too.

Review by Lt. Mowett fan