The Constant Gardener
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Danny Huston, Bill Nighy, Hubert Koundé
Directed by: Fernando Meirelles

Released in the US on: August 31, 2005
Released in the UK in: September 2005

Reviewed by: Adam Mast, ZBoneman.com

The Constant Gardener is a haunting, poetic, quietly effective character study that, above all, proves that Fernando Meirelles is not only one of the most exciting film makers out there, but one of the most diverse. While this picture doesn’t quite pack the same emotional wallop as Meirelles’ City of God, it is a powerhouse in it’s own right, and earns extra points for being such a vast departure.

The Constant Gardener – based on a novel by John Le Carre -- features a stunning Ralph Fiennes as Justin Quayle, a member of the British High Commission. Upon learning of an awful tragedy, Justin begins to piece together a mystery that involves his crusading wife Tessa (played by Rachel Weisz). This mystery leads the ordinarily subdued individual to North Kenya. His rather unpredictable actions evoke nervousness from certain members on the British High Commission, and soon Justin finds himself falling deeper in love with a woman he only thought he knew.

The Constant Gardener has many layers. It’s a murder mystery, it’s a tale of obsession, an expose on the abuse inherent in poverty stricken countries (in particular, the nasty, cut-throat politics of personal gain at the expense of the less fortunate). But mostly, it’s a love story. And it is how this tale of passion is told that really allows the film to soar.

The Constant Gardener essentially jumps back and forth between the present and the past, allowing the audience fragmented glimpses of a love affair. As the relationship between Justin and Tessa grows, so does Tessa’s need to stand up for what she believes in (in this case she’s waging a war against a corrupt government she firmly believes is committing murder). Soon, what was once a strong marriage, gradually develops into a strained union plagued by deep secrets and growing suspicion. By the end of Justin’s journey, however, certain facts are revealed that open this man’s eyes to the reality his wife perceives, and not only does he soon realize how much he truly loves Tessa, but he becomes a better man as a result of his agonizing ordeal.

Ralph Fiennes is sensational here as a sort of withdrawn but loving individual who has much more courage than is initially suggested. The subtle, effective transformation this character goes through works because of Fienne’s beautifully nuanced turn. Take for instance a heartbreaking sequence in which a passionate Justin pleads with a pilot to save the life of an orphaned Kenya child. The climax of the particular scene is devastating in a way I wasn’t prepared for, and the way Fiennes plays this moment is masterful. In fact, the entire turn is masterful. This is one of his very best performances. Likewise, Rachel Weisz is fantastic as a woman who appears cold at the surface. As the story progresses, however, we begin to realize that this tenacious, determined woman has much love in her heart. Fiennes and Weisz deliver individually and as a team. Whether they’re arguing or exchanging loving glances, the chemistry is genuine. The supporting cast is stellar, most notably the amazing Bill Nighy whose final moments in the picture are outstanding.

I really don’t know how to express my admiration for Meirelles. This film maker is truly gifted. He certainly has a distinct style (watch for hand held camera work), but he also proves to be incredibly diverse. While City of God was brash and kinetic, The Constant Gardener is restrained and poetic. Meirelles knows that in a story like this, it isn’t necessary to show violence. The mere suggestion of it is powerful enough, and the direction this picture takes in it’s intense final moments work all the better because this exceptional film maker has the good sense to put an emphasis on the power of love rather than focusing on the violent, atrocious act that’s being committed.

The Constant Gardener is slow moving but never dull. It’s intriguing in ways that Sydney Pollack’s recent The Interpreter only aspired to be. It also offers up a powerful statement on poverty stricken countries without beating it over the audience’s head. Congratulations to Fernando Meirelles, Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz and co. for delivering one the year’s most powerful films.

Grade: A-