Uniformly excellent cast and competent handling of scenes and interactions, with both humour and drama. However, a faithful rendering gives three hours plus of sticking fairly closely to the book, so much of the film lacks tension: depressed looking actors having depressing conversations in depressing dingy rooms, which all look rather similar. Apparently realistic settings and social issues tend to reduce themselves to a claustrophobic bubble, with little obvious connection to the real world. Even the external shots don't bring much relief and there is no score to lift the mood. The familiar plot doesn't deliver many surprises, with plot development achieved through dialogue rather than action, with of course notable exceptions. The tremendous acting and overall drama of the plot carry the film, but don't expect to be on the edge of your seat and the length is something to bear in mind.
Review of Crime and Punishment
