'The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones' Film Review: From Jemima West's Kick Ass Character to Jamie Campbell Bower's British Charm
Cassandra Clare's best-selling novel, "The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones" turned film finally hit cinemas nationwide. While the reviews are half angelic and half demonic, nothing beats the fact that Jemima West kicked butt as a "Shadowhunter" and that Jamie Campbell-Bower's impeccable British charm won a few hearts. For those who have yet to see the film, warning spoilers ahead.
The producers definitely wanted to stay true as much as possible to the novel. Of course, fitting an extremely detailed book into a less than three hour timeframe was impossible. Still, a few changes here and missing plots there were quite forgivable.
Take for example, Rafael of the "Downworlder" Vampire pack wasn't present at the time Jace Wayland (Jamie Campbell-Bower) and Clary Fray (Lily Collins) had headed to Hotel Death. Simon Lewis (Robert Sheehan) who needed rescuing wasn't turned into a mouse as told in the books too. Another obvious change was the childhood story shared by Jace which was interestingly inserted in the romantic scene in the garden. Fans would also notice the missing scene where Clary Fray slaps Jace Wayland for the 10% of her "Shadowhunter" blood.
Some of these changes might have been forgivable. Yet, the plot twist of the novels where Clary Fray and Jace Wayland were said "not to be siblings" was revealed quite early for the film. A grave mistake for the producers which could have kept viewers hooked for the next film adaptation. Of course, true fans who have read the books would no longer be surprised by this.
As for the cast, Jemima West who played Isabelle Lightwood certainly kicked ass in style though not too snarky as her book character. On the other hand, Kevin Zegers who played Alec Lightwood was notably absent even from the beginning of the film as compared to his onscreen sibling, Jemima. Robert Sheehan's hilarious comeback lines sounded quite natural which goes the same way for Jamie Campbell-Bower's British charm and sarcasm.
The Bottom Line: "The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones" is another film adaptation young adults would surely enjoy. Also, viewers should note that this isn't the next "Harry Potter" nor is it a "Twilight" wannabe hit. Anyone wanting the same enjoyment in watching the likes of "Hunger Games" should definitely head to their nearest cinemas and watch "The Mortal Instruments."