The name of the Rose is an intriguing historical drama. Set in Italy in 1327, the story concerns mysterious deaths which were taking place in a remote abbey. After the first of these, two visitors arrived, William of Baskerville (Sean Connery), and his novice Adso of Melk (a very young Christian Slater). Quickly realising that this first death was a murder (and not suicide as described) the very intellectual William of Baskerville decides to investigate. William discovers that the murders are connected to an ancient Greek work of literature, and strives to find the book, which has been hidden away, its very existence shrouded in secrecy.
Sean Connery as William of Baskerville and Christian Slater as Adso of Melk
However, before he can conclude his investigation, an infamous and sinister inquisitor, Bernardo Gui (F. Murray Abraham) arrives. He works hard to discredit William, and instead blames the murders on so called heretics and non-existent Satanists.
F Murray Abraham as Bernardo Gui
After a fairly slow start, this film warms up into a compelling murder mystery. The acting from the leading actors is superb (which is what I have learned to expect from both Sean Connery and Christian Slater), and the supporting cast are just as impressive. The setting is perfect, and very realistic. As a viewer, I could almost feel how cold and uncomfortable this 14th century abbey would have been for its residents.
As a murder mystery lover myself, I found this absorbing to watch. This movie had a dark and ominous feel to it throughout, and I would recommend it to fans of both whodunits and period dramas alike.
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