Crowe gives 'command' performance

When Hollywood studios co-produce big-budget films they are generally quite aware of their project's extravagance. However, in the latest from director Peter Weir (Dead Poets Society, The Truman Show), 20th Century Fox, Universal and Miramax have endorsed something of a restrained nature. \nMaster and Commander: The Far Side of the World, based on Patrick O'Brian's series of novels, is something of an enigma. It's not quite the grandiose spectacle one would anticipate, despite it being marketed as such. This ain't Gladiator on water. It's an epic character piece that relies on action as a byproduct to drive the narrative. It may have cost $135 million, but it's got the soul of an indie flick. \nRussell Crowe plays "Lucky" Jack Aubrey, British captain of the H.M.S. Surprise. When Jack's ship is surprise (pun intended) attacked by a French vessel of superior capabilities, he begins an epic cat-and-mouse chase that will take him and his men to the far reaches of the world (hence, the title). \nCrowe, once again, is incredible. His performance truly convinces you of his character's heroism. Also surprisingly good, and worth of a Supporting Actor Oscar nod, is Paul Bettany, who plays the ship's surgeon and Jack's longtime chum. \nWeir's direction is languid and very subtle. Rarely anything about the film calls attention to itself. He crafts the narrative in a minimalist fashion, giving what feels like an accurate depiction of life at sea. \nWhile the film feels authentic and expressive, it has its share of flaws. It's not a plot-driven movie and will probably only hold the attention of adults and those without ADD. \nThe cinematography is fairly simplistic. The camera sits as a bystander, not feeling as if it's lensing an epic. Shots are stoic and undramatic. \nThe action pieces feel muddled to the point of confusion at times, making it difficult to tell who is in danger. And with so many characters, it's difficult to form any attachments. Most of all, it feels like a vignette from a larger story, which it is -- only one part in a large series of books. \nThe scenery, however, is beautiful. Master is the first feature film to shoot on location in the Galapagos Islands, and on screen, it's breathtaking. The battle tactics are creative and exciting, and the pacing reflects the characters' state. While not as awe-inspiring as it should have been, Master is still a solid filmgoing experience.