Review by Bindi Lavelle
Polanski knows tension, Rosemary's Baby is proof enough, but if you have doubts (shame on you) The Ninth Gate will put these thoughts to rest.
Johnny Depp stars as the cynical, money hungry book dealer Corso, who is hired by a wealthy business- man to authenticate a book. This book, “The Nine Gates Of The Kingdom Of Shadows” supposedly contains a secret riddle, which when solved, summons the devil. Through his investigation Corso becomes fascinated with the darkly inviting world he encounters.
The film carries itself with a constant air on menace; from the film's opening, you understand that something is clearly not right. The music rolls with gentle visual ques as the occult's secrets are unraveled.
The pace is slow and subtle, making the climax ultimately satisfying. Polanski treats the super natural themes implicitly, letting the audience sink in and dwell in the atmosphere of Corso's journey. Fan's of supernatural thrillers are sure to enjoy this tale of temptation. 8.5/10 .