“Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” is based on the popular PC game of the same name released by Ubisoft in 2003.
Plot
Set in the mystical land of Persia, a rogue prince and a mysterious princess fight against dark forces to safeguard an ancient dagger capable of releasing the Sands of Time — a gift from the gods that can reverse time and allow its possessor to rule the world. Adopted from the streets of Nasaf by King Sharaman of Persia, young Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) grows up among royalty, and quickly earns his place as a mighty warrior and prince, along with Garsiv (Tony Kebbell) and Tus (Richard Coyle), the sons of King Sharaman.
Now, the king's brother and most trusted advisor, Nizam (Ben Kinglsey) claims to have found proof that the rulers of the Holy City of Alamut are making weapons and selling them to Persia's enemy. Taking matters into his own hands, Tus orders an attack on the sacred city. When it falls, Dastan encounters the beautiful Princess Tamina (Gemma Arterton). King Sharaman dies under mysterious circumstances shortly after and Dastan is accused of murder. He flees with the princess on a harrowing mission to clear his name. Learning from Tamina the true motives behind Alamut's invasion, Dastan must embark on a perilous quest to stop an evil mastermind's plot for ultimate power with a mystical weapon that can control the very fabric of time.
Entertaining
The film has a strong Arabian flavour, thanks to its colourful exotic outfits, bronzed star cast and the beautiful picturisation of the sandstorm and desert. The action scenes — sword fighting, snake fighting, horse riding and Ostrich riding — is entertaining too.
Bottomline: A solid example of summer film fare; fun for the moment, but it won't stay with you once you leave the theatre; epic but ephemeral.
R. RANJANI, XII A, Vidyodaya Matric Higher Secondary School
