With a tagline beginning with the phrase, 'Before Romeo and Juliet,' it is easy to assume that 'Tristan and Isolde' is just another sob-inducing story about two star-crossed lovers. However, there is so much more to the film than its taglines and trailers imply.
Based on a medieval legend, 'Tristan and Isolde' travels back to a time when England was divided into several tribes, each under different leadership. Though the tribe leaders are skeptical about unification, they all agree on one thing: to defend England from Irish invaders. This is the situation that Tristan (James Franco) grows to know and understand, as his parents are slain and he is taken under the care of Lord Marke of Cornwall (Rufus Sewell).
With one goal in mind, Tristan will stop at nothing to defend his home, his people and his lord. But after being presumed dead in battle, Tristan's body ends up being washed along the shores of Ireland where he is found by young maiden Isolde (Sophia Myles). As he is being nursed back to health by this mysterious woman, Tristan realizes love for the first time. Though reluctant to leave, Tristan eventually returns to Cornwall, knowing his duty to his people.
Surprising news sweeps the English tribes when King Donnchadh of Ireland announces a tournament in an attempt to separate the tribe leaders even further, offering his daughter as the prize. Tristan vows to win Lord Marke a wife and enters the tournament on his behalf, and also in hope of finding his lover among the crowd. Tristan is victorious but is startled as he soon realizes that Isolde, his lord's soon-to-be-wife, is actually the woman he fell in love with. The movie continues shadowing the relationship between Tristan and Isolde and their struggle to fend off their passions towards one another.
In addition, the casting is excellent. With no huge Hollywood stars, it is easier to see the characters for who they are. Franco, who is the most notable actor in this film with his roles in 'James Dean' and the 'Spider-man' movies, is superb in bringing out both the physical and emotional attributes of Tristan. Sophia Myles is breathtaking as Isolde, able to come off as a strong female who is still vulnerable to her own desires.
Though the affair is the focal point of the story, the film is as much about loyalty. Tristan's relationship with Lord Marke is comparable to that of a father and son. As Isolde becomes the object of both their affections, Tristan's loyalty is tested, and Franco and Sewell work very well together. Sewell adds a noble quality to his character, showing that although Lord Marke and Tristan are rivals for the same woman, he is still a good man.
The bleak surroundings definitely enhance the film. The dreariness of the landscape sets the mood, portraying the harsh life of the Dark Ages. The movie is also filled with battle scenes that make the situation seem even more distressing. This is a unique setting for a love story to unveil, yet it works. The love between Tristan and Isolde is the glimmer of light that brightens the story, making it a remarkable film that is worth viewing.
