I first mentioned The Mortal Instruments on October 2, 2012 on my post Relax & Read: The Mortal Instruments. Then I followed it up on November 15, 2012 when I realized it was being adapted into a movie, and I couldn’t help but post Movie Mention: City of Bones. Now I’m here, almost a year later, reviewing the very movie I’ve been looking forward to for such a long time!
Before I get into the review, however, I want to clarify that I’m not going to have spoilers, because I know many of you might be seeing it this weekend or in the future. (If you decide to comment with a spoiler, I will respond, but please begin your comment with “SPOILER ALERT” so no one’s experience is tainted.) That being said, my review is also going to seem very short, because I cannot say a lot without spoiling certain parts. So here we go:
I’ve seen it twice now, and I loved it both times. I thought it was fantastic, and, yes, I’ve read all of the books–numerous times. I understand they changed a lot, including sequencing and the overall ending. But I’m very openminded when it comes to movie adaptations, and I look at books and their movies as separate pieces of work. As readers know, the books are very detailed and long. I think it’s important to remember how little time the directors and screenwriters have to fit everything in. Plus, it’s an adaptation–something I like to consider a “sister piece” (something inspired by the book–not the actual book.) I do think the movie is easier to understand if you’ve read the novel, because some explanations are only one or two sentences long, and, sometimes, it is whispered. However, the movie storyline is linear, and the graphics were awesome. I loved Jamie Campbell Bower, and I was impressed by Lily Collins as well (I was more worried about Collins than Bower, because I loved him in Camelot and haven’t seen so much range from Collins before.) Also, I think they retained Clare’s humor as much as possible in the two-hour dark tale. In regards to the “secret” revealed, I can see why people are upset, but, at the same time, I understand why Hollywood would change it for non-readers. Plus, let’s be real, readers would have told everyone the truth anyway.
But I will say one thing:
If you want an exact (or closely told) story of City of Bones, you’ll probably be disappointed, especially towards the end. I’d simply recommend an open mind to the changes. I absolutely love, love, LOVE the books, and I enjoyed this movie.
The only disappointments I had included Magnus Bane and the lack of presence Alec and Isabelle had (but I’m hoping they will get more screen time in City of Ashes.) Despite the overall popular disappointment with the movie adaptation and the book, City of Lost Souls, I remain a loyal fan of Cassandra Clare. It’s safe to say that I’m counting the days until City of Heavenly Fire (Book 6) is released on May 27, 2014 and City of Ashes (movie) comes out.
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Aside from my review, I also wanted to share two book reviews I’ve received from two lovely ladies:
“Anne” by Carmen Stevens
- Author of Anne, Carmen Stevens, reviewed Minutes Before Sunset on her blog. “For me, there was a continuum of fast page turning as the story developed and the two main characters developed an interesting romance. This book is compelling, dramatic, funny and sweet, with lots of edge and action. I’d rate it 5 out of 5 stars, and this comes from someone who NEVER reads fantasy. Check it out today! It’s totally worthy of the Goodreads award it was given.” Read the rest here.
- Goodreads reviewer, Satarupa, also read Minutes Before Sunset: “I loved the story line, it is fresh and unique and totally ‘kick-ass’! The action scenes are awesome and they are capable of sending chills down your spine and the suspense will drive you crazy with anticipation.” Read the rest here.
