Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Epic adaptation changes classic story; some violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
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The Count of Monte Cristo
What's the Story?
Edmond Dantès (Pierre Niney) is entering his 20s with the world at his feet: He's just been promoted to captain and is about to marry the love of his life, Mercédès (Anaïs Demoustier). Unaware that he has enemies, Edmond doesn't see a conspiracy forming to take him down until he's falsely imprisoned. More than a decade later, he emerges from prison and is led to treasure by a friend who asks whether he'll use the money to do good—or for hate. Edmond uses the fortune to transform himself into THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO and sets into motion a plan to make sure that justice is served. Adapted from Alexandre Dumas' classic novel of the same name.
Is It Any Good?
Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte add on to the Alexandre Dumas Cinematic Universe with fantastic cinematography, precise production design, lavish costumes, and spot-on acting. But their changes to Dumas' source novel may not sit well with loyalists. This includes the addition of the character of Angèle (Adèle Simphal), who's depicted as strong, brave, and having integrity (although she's also a spy for an exiled Napoleon); other female characters Haydée (Anamaria Vartolomei) and Mercédès (Demoustier) are depicted positively, even though The Count of Monte Cristo takes place during a period in which women were deprived of agency. Yes, the movie is long, but Delaporte and de La Patellière vividly bring The Count of Monte Cristo to life in a way that helps makes this enduring story and its life lessons understandable to today's teens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the differences between Alexandre Dumas' original novel and this adaptation. What do you think are the challenges in adapting a long classic novel?
What is the message of The Count of Monte Cristo? Why do you think this piece of literature has endured through the centuries?
What's happening at the time the story is set? Why is Napoleon in Elba, and why would a spy be bringing secret notes?
What is art direction or production design in a movie? How does it impact the viewers' experience?
How does education help Dantès escape poverty?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 20, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : January 31, 2025
- Cast : Pierre Niney , Laurent Lafitte , Anamaria Vartolomei , Bastien Bouillon
- Directors : Alexandre de La Patellière , Matthieu Delaporte
- Studio : Pathe
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters
- Character Strengths : Courage
- Run time : 178 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : adventure violence/swordplay and some sensuality
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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