Today I finished reading Alexandre Dumas', "The Count of Monte Cristo". Yes, all 1,462 unabridged pages of it!! I started right before Christmas, so it took me just under two months. I think that is pretty good considering I managed to finish a few other smaller books in the interim. My poor copy is now all dog eared and well worn, and I loved every page of it. Admittedly a bit long in places, but one of the best adventure stories I have read. I think I will be missing the Count as I start something new.
I have been waiting to watch the movie, which I did once I finished the book. I wish I could give it as glowing a report, but movies are never (or rarely) as good as the book. This movie had a (and I stress) vague resemblance to the book. But I was really pretty disappointed. I knew there would be a lot left out, but the director just messed with too many key points and people which greatly annoyed me. I think Jim Caviezel was totally mis-cast for this part (ever since I saw him opposite J. Lo in Angel Eyes, I can't say I have had a very favorable view of him). The language was off, they tried to be humorous in parts (or maybe they weren't going for humor...), I could go on, but I will spare you. The Count of Monte Cristo is this larger than life sort of character, and this movie just did not live up to who I have been reading about for the last two months.
I have to say I saw the Richard Chamberlain version ages ago, and as I remember it, that one followed the actual storyline much better. I will have to try and get a hold of a copy of that to see if my memory serves me correctly. I imagine that if you have not read the book, the movie might be enjoyable, but personally I recommend reading the book instead!!