Went to see Rendition the other night, the trailer looked promising so I was looking forward to it as it couldn’t possibly be worse than The Kingdom.

It wasn’t worse than The Kingdom, I’ll give it that much. In fact, it started out quite promising, and in fairness it entertained for a fair portion of the duration. However, overall this is an instantly forgettable film.

It’s main malady is that it’s just too simplistic. Rendition just doesn’t contain enough detail to make it a compelling watch, or to make it ring true in any way.

The characters are not developed enough and what little dramatic tension there is in the plot peaks too early and leaves you with nothing but a slow deflation for the last section of the film - just where it should have kicked into a higher gear.

I like to see films being made which deal with issues like these, and of course I like it even better when they reflect my view… however it would be nice to see some real thought being put into the issue, and some form of compelling argument which might reach the odd person who isn’t already utterly convinced of your argument.

Even I have to admit that Rendition is a fairly naieve and over simplistic film. As an argument, it may well be right, but it doesn’t have the debating skills to defend it’s position for even a moment.

Another disappointment for the future of serious film.

Report card: Marks for attendance but could try harder.