Cinecast #12: A Kingdom of Conscience

On this week's show, we take a look at "Kingdom of Heaven," Ridley Scott's $100 million plea for religious tolerance. With films such as "Gladiator" and "Black Hawk Down," Scott proved himself a skilled craftsman at portraying the art of war. "Kingdom" gives Scott a chance to stage some spectacular battle sequences between the 12th century Christian and Muslim armies as they fight for control of Jerusalem. But do he and screenwriter William Monahan let their political agenda get in the way of effective storytelling? Or is Scott's strong ensemble, including Orlando Bloom, Jeremy Irons, Liam Neeson and newcomer Eva Green, compelling enough to carry the film? We agree on a number of "Kingdom's" strengths and weaknesses, but split on whether the film is really worth checking out.

Also on the show: Listener feedback and top fives, a look at the critical response to Todd Solondz's "Palindromes," Massacre Theatre, and this week's Top 5 -- Movies with Swords.



Cinecast #12
:47-14:46 - Review: "Kingdom of Heaven"
16:03-23:30 - Critical response to "Palindromes," Listener Feedback
24:47-32:57 - Top 5 Movies with Swords, Massacre Theatre

"Last Monday Night" by Wilder Embry ... "Albuquerque Lullaby" by Dan Bern courtesy of Messenger Records ... Cinecast theme music courtesy of Age of the Rifle.

Have a comment or Top 5 list you'd like to share? Send us an e-mail at cinecast@cinecastshow.com. Or give us a call at 206-203-CINE and leave a voice message.