The Name Of The Rose (Review)

The Name Of The Rose

Poster illustration by Drew Struzan from Impawards

Based on the 1980 debut novel by Umberto Eco, The Name Of The Rose stars Sean Connery as William of Baskerville, a Franciscan monk. Set in 14th-century Italy, William and his sidekick Adso of Melk, played by a young Christian Slater, arrive at a Benedictine Abbey ahead of a theological debate to determine whether or not the Catholic Church should give up all their worldly possessions.

Prior to their arrival, a young monk has died under mysterious circumstances and William is asked to investigate. Over the next few days, several more bizarre deaths occur. While the Benedictines believe the murders to be the work of the Devil, William takes a more analytical approach. To discover the truth, William must illuminate the darkness at the heart of the Order and face the persecution of the Inquisition.

Released in 1986, The Name Of The Rose is both gripping and grotesque. The dark, brooding cinematography brings the Medieval setting to life. Sean Connery is as classy and cool as ever in his role as the Holmsian detective monk while a young Christian Slater gives a sincere performance as Adso, an apprentice monk attempting to reconcile his earthly desires with his heavenly calling, and we even get a surprise performance by Ron Pearlman as the seemingly insane and hunchbacked Salvatore. The Name Of The Rose is a forgotten classic well worth your time.

Rating: A