THE BEACH (2000) - ♦♦

Directed by - Danny Boyle

Written by - John Hodge (based on a novel by Alex Garland)

Starring - Leonardo Di Caprio

"A director like Danny Boyle, whose films are often defined by exotic settings, seemed like the right manto adapt the Alex Garland novel by the same name. Yet, The Beach is undoubtedly one of the most disappointing titles in his excellent filmography. 

The story follows a young man as he is introduced to a utopian community living on a deserted island in Thailand. However, this hidden paradise turns into hostile territory after the balance of the community is disturbed and trouble arises with a group of drug dealers whom they share the island with. 

The Beach is clearly more concerned with looking trendy and appeal to a young demographic of fun loving travelling young people. However, the pop culture influences style make it seem like it has not aged well. 

The story itself is unfocused and even the character's motives are unclear, also due to the fact that they are not very appealing to begin with. This was also not a good vehicle for Leonardo Di Caprio, looking to land himself a reputation as the serious actors he would be hailed to be after the staggering success of John Cameron's Titanic, that made him a sex symbol. 

Bottom line is, the film is dull and difficult to sit through. While The Beach is accompanied by excellent visuals that gorify its setting, there is very little else that can possibly be admired."

Adventure, USA/UK