The 2002 adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo is a solid, straightforward retelling of Alexandre Dumas’ classic revenge tale. Split cleanly into three acts — betrayal, imprisonment, and revenge — the film plays it safe with its structure and storytelling. It doesn’t dig too deep into subplots or character complexities, instead choosing to keep its focus tight on Edmond Dantès’ transformation from naïve sailor to calculating count. While Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce carry the film as the central rivals, the most captivating performance comes from Richard Harris as Abbé Faria. His brief time on screen injects the film with heart and wisdom, creating one of the film’s standout segments. The score is dramatic and sweeping, adding emotional depth where the script occasionally plays it a little too straight. There are a few memorable moments scattered throughout, but the film never strays far from the expected path. Though it may not be groundbreaking, The Count of Monte Cristo remains an entertaining, well-produced period adventure. Still, it’s the kind of movie that’s easy to miss — or forget — if you’re not looking for it. Stick around until the end for a round of Movie 20 Questions. Safe travels, nomads.