Watch The Name of the Rose

The Name of the Rose is a 1986 film based on the novel of the same name by Umberto Eco. Set in the 14th century, the film tells the story of William of Baskerville (Sean Connery), a Franciscan friar and his young apprentice Adso (Christian Slater) who arrive at a monastery in northern Italy. The monastery is in turmoil as several monks have died under mysterious circumstances and there is a growing sense of paranoia and suspicion amongst the inhabitants.

William is a rationalist who is interested in using his knowledge of science and logic to solve the mystery of the deaths. He is opposed by the head of the monastery, Abbot Aringarosa (Helmut Qualtinger), who is more interested in preserving the power of the Catholic Church and suppressing any ideas or practices that threaten their authority. As William investigates the deaths, he uncovers a dark conspiracy that involves the church, politics, and ancient texts.

The film deals with themes of power, religion, science, and the struggle between faith and reason. The setting of the monastery creates a claustrophobic and oppressive atmosphere that adds to the tension and mystery. The performances are strong, with Sean Connery delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the flawed but heroic William of Baskerville. Christian Slater is also impressive as the young Adso, who is initially naive and impressionable but gradually gains wisdom and insight into the complexities of the world.

The Name of the Rose is a slow-burning film that rewards patience and attention to detail. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the role of religion in society and the dangers of censorship and authoritarianism. The film is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography and a haunting score that captures the atmosphere of the medieval setting.

Overall, The Name of the Rose is a compelling and intelligent film that is well worth watching for fans of historical dramas and philosophical thrillers. Its themes and ideas are still relevant today and the performances of the cast elevate the material to a higher level. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and politics, the power of knowledge and the importance of free thinking.

In conclusion, The Name of the Rose is a cinematic masterpiece that stands the test of time and remains a powerful and thought-provoking film over three decades after its initial release.

The Name of the Rose is a 1986 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 6 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7 and a MetaScore of 54.