I love it. It has everything to make it wonderful. Rufus. Beautiful cinematography. Rufus. A powerful portrayal of honor and valor. Rufus. A fair but misguided maiden. Rufus. A modest budget that makes the picture rely on story rather than special effects. Rufus… 

And then there is James Franco who plays Tristan. The less said about him the better. In all fairness it is not his fault. No match for Rufus’ even on his worst day, he never stands even the faintest shadow of chance. He doesn’t belong in this picture. Yet his miscast pain, in an odd way makes the story work. If the fair maiden had realized the folly of her ways and ultimately chosen Marke the story would have been perfect... but alas the script dictates otherwise.  

Sophia Myles clearly chooses Rufus. There is a tender affection between them that transcends the boundaries of the story. When they touch it’s with a sweetness and attraction missing from Isolde’s relationship with Tristan. For anyone familiar with the era, it’s impossible to imagine that a woman like Isolde, the daughter of a king would ever choose a callow boy over the soon to be ruler of England. That they have cast an actor in the role of Marke who is compelling and attractive only exacerbates the odd inequity. A more gifted actor in the role of Tristan might have cajoled rather than leaving the audience to scratch its head. Perhaps the directors choice to make Marke sympathetic did not take into account that Rufus, even in his most devious roles never fails to appeal. 

The dialog is a nod to 21st century notions of romance. Rufus, to his credit pulls it off without a hitch even if I cringe in a spot or two. He imbues Marke with a dignity and intelligence befitting the first monarch of the newly formed alliance, leaving no doubt that come what may, it will be governed by a level and just hand. Even in the face of the betrayal of his wife and adopted son he chooses not what is best for himself but what is best for his kingdom.  

If it’s been a while since you’ve watched Rufus, this is a story to fall in love with him all over again. It showcases the very best of his gifts as an actor and as a man, and gives him an opportunity to share the texture, warmth and depth that highlight so many of his performances of late.

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