Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

The Prince, or is he the pauper, of Persia. Why do movie producers insist on changing the origins of our game-to-film characters!? Although it may only be a minor detail, it begs the question even more, why change it? As to be expected there were several chase scenes, one being show early on in the film during Prince Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) childhood. These scenes draw the audience in and not only make us feel part of the chase but show us a stunning view of the landscape which contributes to the feeling of awe.

Very nice inclusions within the film are certain moments that pay homage to the games, a few of these include; the classic wall run, his war armour looks remarkably similar…

when using the dagger he reveals his dark side

and finally the predominant outfit for the film.

The fighting and acrobatics within the film closely mirror the games well, the fighting style of Gyllenhaal in particular copies well the fighting style of Prince of Persia: Warrior Within. As for the CGI, well that was seamless and well blended with the live action footage to create a blend that will shock you.

Our Princess Tamina (Gemma Arterton) is less Farhar and more Elika, and for those who are regular listeners of the Push-Start podcast are well aware we are not to fond of Elika and the Prince of Persia 2008 game. So I am pleased to say the Arterton’s character becomes more likeable as the film continues – unlike Elika, her game counterpart.

My only criticism would be a minor section of scripting for Sheik Amar’s (Alfred Molina) as he incisive repeats of the line ‘have I told you about the Ngbaka tribe’ when speaking about his bodyguard Seso (Steve Toussaint). This line is said every time Toussaint throws a knife accurately and the audience are reminded about the story of a tribe who ‘throw knifes so precisely, they believe they are blessed by the Gods.’ I didn’t like being spoon fed this reference every time, instead I became quite annoyed as I figured it out myself and then had to hear Molina repeat his line for the fourth time in the movie. Also anyone hoping for any sand-tainted warriors will have to settle for the Hassansins, a group of mystic assassins that King Sharaman (Ronald Pickup) ordered executed, but they are very much alive…

This is possibly the best game-to-film movies I have ever seen, we couldn’t have asked for more from the producers of Pirate of the Caribbean, with amazing performances by Ben Kingsley, Toby Kebbell, Richard Coyle and a brilliant representation of the Prince by Gyllenhaal. To end I will let you know, nothing looks like more of an adrenaline rush then surfing on a tidal wave of sand.

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