Let's face it.. John Hurt's performance gets a lukewarm reaction.. It was OK at places.. And he is too old for the part. And when the little boys, as Raskolinikov is looking at his reflection in the water, drop stones which distort his face: isn't this a metaphor for the whole film?? And some good supporting cast. And some not so good i.e. Medvedeev. Moreover, I noticed concerning the photography. The outdoor scenes are more realistic; and the indoor scenes are like a filmed play. And, for some reason, there are more outdoor scenes in Part 1 and less in Part's 2 and 3. And, again, moreover - correct me if I am wrong - but they refer to Raskolnikov (Hurt) as a professor, lawyer, student, law student...etc..etc.. One positive aspect of the film was how characters would recur in the film. And that was the closest thing to Russian novel, how there are so many characters. So - in closing - it is definitely worth a watch, but again, keep in mind it is like watching a "filmed play".
Review of Crime and Punishment
