This is a film definitely to watch. It will keep you hooked. First - let me see if I remember the musketeers correctly - Athos , Porthos, Aramis and D’Artagnan ( Yes!!!) in the order- John Malkovich, Gerard Depardieu, Jeremy Irons and Gabriel Byrne. Beside them Leonardo DiCaprio seems like a Lad who is completely out of his depth.
The drama is set during the period 1638-1715 - reign of Louis XIV in modern day France. The King ( DiCaprio) is young , extravagant and does not fear anyone except a man who he had imprisoned with an Iron Mask bound to his head. When ths kings selfishness exceeds limits, the 3 Musketeers return to business. The 4th Musketeer returns but a little later. Aramis was the secret leader of the Jesuits who wished to overthrow Louis and Athos - his son was deliberately sent to war front and killed because Louis took a liking to his girlfriend.
’’All for one and one for all ’’ - they go all out to free the unknown ’’Man in the Iron Mask’’ and free france from the selfish king.
John Malkovich is by far the best - its a treat to watch him . Gerard Depardieu exhibits a rough and ruddy kind of humour and Jeremy Irons is a perfect foil for him.
DiCaprio is good but gets overshadowed. Gabriel Byrne plays to perfection - the gentleman Musketeer - one who is torn between his duty and heart and one who believes that even the worst should be given a chance.
Its an impressive movie - there are not much of technical gadgetry but there is splendour and rich colors and intrigue.
So I would say ’ if you get a chance to watch this movie - grab it !!