Ok, here's some simple math that I wish more studios in Hollywood understood. What do you get when you add solid compelling material with a cast of talented true actors? A bloody good film. This is what the equation seems to add up to in The Merchant of Venice.

3 actors who I would easily include in any top 25 actors list lead the cast (Jeremy Irons, Al Pacino and Joseph Fiennes) that apparently all hold their own with these heavey weights. Hollywood News gives us this:

So, the story breaks down like this. Set in 16th century Venice, the film follows Antonio (Jeremy Irons) who approaches Jew Shylock (Al Pacino) to lend him a sum of money to help his close friend Bassanio (Joseph Fiennes) win the heart of rich, noble totty, Portia whose castle lies on the island of Belmont. When loaning the money, Shylock refuses to charge interest on the loan and agrees that Antonio should give up a 'pound of flesh' should he not repay the money on time. Little does Antonio know, that Shylock holds a grudge against him and when he fails to repay the debt on time, the Jew sets out to claim his bond as agreed, in full.

the standout acting role belongs to the relatively unknown Lynn Collins as Portia. Take away her small role in this years 13 Going on 30, this is one of her first appearances on screen, and what a role -- what a performance. Look out for this young starlet in the future.

Has anyone seen this film? John, has it been shown there yet?

Because I have seen it and I was blown away by Al Pacino as Shylock. When he acted out that scene explaining why he would stand by his decision, which is where the "a pound of flesh" premise came about, he didnt remind me at all of Michael Corleone, or of Carlito Brigante, or Tony Montana or any character from his previous films. He was Shylock. I watched it with somene who has read The Merchant of Venice and who wasnt a fan of Pacino and he felt he did it brilliantly.

I will recommend this film. Pacino in one of his very best performances.