Huge Disappointment

Like millions out there, I read the book... well devoured the book more like, I could not take my nose out of it, so naturally was bursting for the movie to appear. Got to see it today and emerged from it very deflated. It was a huge disappointment to fans of the book... and I think even those who have not read the book and just decided to go to this movie without any preconceptions and enjoy it as a thriller would also emerge very non plussed. There were many faults, but the first one to mind was the casting of Tom Hanks in the male lead. I am a huge fan of Tom Hanks, love his work, but he was dreadful in this. Completely miscast, and surprisingly wooden and lifeless in the role. Audrey Tatou wasn't too bad at all, but the absolute lack of any chemistry between the two leads took from her character in my opinion. When Robert and Sophie part company at the end of the movie, having gone through so much together - its so emotionless and anti-climactic...and that sort of sums up the entire thing. All the edge of the seat stuff and heart stopping moments that the book delivered simply didnt materialise at all here. No question the best part of this movie was Sir Ian Mc Kellan as Sir Leigh Teabing....he was marvellous - and could have taught actors half his age a lesson or two. I wont be renting this when it comes out on DVD for a second view, and certainly wont be buying it to add to my collection, instead I shall dust off the book and relive a great story the way it was written to be enjoyed.